North Korea Fires Artillery Shells Near South Korean Islands

Defense news ,North Korea :- In a recent incident, North Korea unleashed an artillery barrage near two South Korean islands, prompting an urgent response from Seoul defense ministry. This marked a significant military escalation in the region, reminiscent of the 2010 attack when the North fired shells at one of the same islands.

The defense ministry in Seoul emphasized that the live firing, which involved "over 200 rounds" of artillery shells near Yeonpyeong and Baengnyeong islands, posed a direct threat to peace on the Korean Peninsula. In response, residents of both islands were ordered to evacuate, and ferry services were suspended. South Korea also planned a naval drill as a countermeasure.

The ministry condemned North Korea actions, calling them a "provocative act" and reassured that there was no damage to the South Korean people and military. The shells landed north of the de facto maritime border known as the Northern Limit Line (NLL). Despite this, evacuation orders were issued as a preventative measure, heightening tensions in the region.

The incident comes after repeated warnings from North Korea leader, Kim Jong Un, about the readiness for war against South Korea and the United States. The defense ministry, in close coordination with the United States, pledged to take appropriate measures to respond to North Korea provocations.

The evacuation of residents from Yeonpyeong and Baengnyeong islands was described as a precautionary step ahead of a planned South Korean military drill. The nullification of a previous accord, which aimed to reduce tensions, has increased concerns about potential military clashes in the border areas.

This military escalation follows the 2010 clash when North Korea bombarded Yeonpyeong island in response to a South Korean live-fire drill, resulting in casualties. The current relations between the two Koreas are strained, with Kim Jong Un solidifying the country nuclear status and warning of a nuclear attack on the South.

In an effort to deter North Korea, Washington deployed strategic weapons, including a nuclear-powered submarine, and engaged in joint drills with Seoul and Tokyo. However, Pyongyang labeled these moves as "intentional nuclear war provocative moves."

As tensions rise on the Korean Peninsula, the international community watches closely, concerned about the potential for further conflict and the destabilization of the region economy.