North Korean troops cross Military Demarcation Line, retreat after South’s warning shots

Ten North Korean troops crossed the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) along the eastern section of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on April 8, but quickly retreated after warning shots were fired by South Korean forces, according to the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).

The incident occurred around 5 p.m. local time, the JCS said in a briefing.

“Our military issued verbal warnings and fired warning shots. The North Korean soldiers then withdrew,” said a JCS official. “We continue to monitor the North’s military movements and are taking necessary measures to adjust our operational posture.”

Previous Violations and Border Tensions

The JCS did not release further information about the incursion. However, local media reports suggested the troops may have inadvertently crossed the MDL while engaged in construction work near the border.

In recent months, North Korea has been implementing what it calls “North-South severance measures,” which include building walls and installing wire entanglements along the DMZ.

This marks the fourth known violation of the MDL by North Korean forces in less than a year. In June 2024 alone, North Korean troops crossed the MDL three times, prompting warning shots from the South Korean military during each breach.

Ongoing Vigilance Along the Border

The latest incident underscores ongoing tensions and the fragile security situation along the inter-Korean border. The South Korean military reaffirmed its readiness to respond swiftly to any future provocations and continues to monitor activities in the North.

BY YOON SO-YEON  [yoon.soyeon@joongang.co.kr]