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South Korea Widens Drone Probe as Ex-Presidential Staffers Surface in Case

Links to former presidential staff have intensified scrutiny of a case that Seoul says does not involve its military.

Overview

  • South Korea’s joint military–police task force has summoned and questioned one civilian suspected of manufacturing a drone allegedly flown into North Korea.
  • A second man has publicly claimed he piloted modified commercial drones for environmental monitoring near Pyongsan, presenting materials that police have not verified.
  • Investigators are examining whether the two men coordinated the flights and are weighing possible charges, including under the Aviation Safety Act.
  • The Defense Ministry says the drones shown by Pyongyang are not South Korean military equipment, while North Korea claims it downed South Korean-launched drones and demands an apology.
  • The ruling Democratic Party has urged a swift, thorough inquiry into any backers, as some politicians voice allegations of political intent that remain unproven.