South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has mandated a comprehensive investigation following a mine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that injured three South Korean soldiers. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, President Lee emphasized the need for a swift and transparent inquiry in collaboration with the United Nations Command to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.
The explosion occurred on September 21 while South Korean soldiers were clearing a path in the DMZ’s western sector in preparation for a joint inspection. Initial findings from South Korea’s military suggest that the land mines involved in the blast were likely planted by North Korea. A joint investigation is currently underway, involving both South Korean and UN Command personnel, to determine the origin of the mines and the exact circumstances of the explosion.
President Lee also conveyed his concerns for the injured soldiers and their families, urging caution against the dissemination of unverified information during the ongoing investigation. He assured that necessary actions would be taken based on the final findings of the probe.
In addition to addressing the immediate incident, President Lee called for strengthening South Korea’s defense capabilities, including the advancement of military technologies. The investigation’s conclusions are anticipated to clarify whether North Korea is responsible for the mine placement, which could lead to further measures by South Korean authorities.