South Korea’s Lee regrets drones sent to North: ‘irresponsible and reckless’
President Lee Jae Myung reverses official denial, confirming state involvement in January incursion.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has formally expressed regret to North Korea, confirming for the first time that government officials were responsible for a drone incursion in January. During a cabinet meeting, Lee stated that an investigation revealed state involvement, directly contradicting Seoul's initial claims that the incident was the work of civilians. He labeled the actions 'irresponsible and reckless,' stressing that while they did not reflect government policy, they caused 'unnecessary military tensions.' This admission marks a significant diplomatic shift and an attempt to de-escalate a situation that had threatened to boil over.
North Korea had issued a stern warning in February, promising a 'terrible response' if more drones crossed the border from the South, which prompted Seoul's internal probe. Pyongyang had previously claimed it shot down a drone carrying surveillance equipment in early January. Lee's public apology is a calculated move to manage regional stability, acknowledging the provocation in hopes of preventing further retaliation from the North and calming heightened military alertness along the heavily fortified border.
- President Lee confirmed a government investigation found South Korean officials sent drones into North Korea in January.
- The admission reverses Seoul's initial denial that the incursion was a civilian act, calling it 'irresponsible and reckless.'
- The apology follows a February threat from Pyongyang of a 'terrible response' to any future border violations.
Why It Matters
This admission risks escalating cross-border tensions but may be a strategic move to prevent further North Korean retaliation.