Civilian 'Drone Infiltration into North Korea'... President Lee: "An Act of War, the Same as Firing a Gun at North Korea"

President Lee Presides Over Cabinet Meeting
"Absolutely Unacceptable"... Orders Thorough Investigation and Strict Sanctions Again

On January 20, President Lee Jaemyung once again emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and strict sanctions regarding the illegal act of sending unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to North Korea.

Yonhap News Agency

Presiding over a Cabinet meeting at the Blue House that day, President Lee stated, "It is absolutely unacceptable to send drones to North Korea for illegal purposes or for civilians to infiltrate North Korean territory with drones." He added, "Although a trial is currently underway regarding the act of infiltrating drones to provoke war, I doubt whether it is even conceivable for a civilian to send a drone to North Korea."

He also pointed out that such actions are equivalent to acts of war or firing a gun at North Korea. President Lee said, "Based on what has been revealed so far, it appears that a civilian arbitrarily infiltrated North Korea with a drone, which is tantamount to an act of war. It is the same as firing a gun at North Korea," and reiterated, "We must conduct a thorough investigation and impose strict sanctions."

Addressing Minister of National Defense Ahn Kyubaek, he questioned whether there was a breach in the surveillance system and instructed improvements to facilities or equipment if necessary. President Lee said to Minister Ahn, "Despite advancements in science, technology, and defense capabilities, were you unable to detect drones making repeated incursions? This suggests there is a breach somewhere," he pointed out.

He continued, "If necessary, facilities or equipment must be improved," and instructed, "If a confrontational atmosphere develops between the two Koreas, it will negatively impact the economy. Please ensure that trust between the two Koreas is maintained."