South Korea: Security

Domestic

South Korean investigators conducted raids on the offices of the National Intelligence Service and a military intelligence command. This action was part of a probe into alleged unauthorized surveillance drone flights that crossed into North Korean airspace. In response to the incidents, South Korea's Unification Ministry expressed regret and pledged to take preventive measures.

International

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presided over military events, unveiling new weapons including a 600-mm rocket launcher and promoting family members to military and party roles. He was reelected as the general secretary of the ruling party, set new military goals, and warned of retaliation against hostile acts. Separately, South Korean and U.S. defense officials held talks on potential changes to their military alliance, including a timeline for transferring wartime operational command to South Korea and a proposal for jointly managing parts of the Demilitarized Zone. North Korea issued a warning of a 'terrible response' to further drone incursions from the South, a statement following the South Korean raids and expressions of regret. Kim Yo-jong described South Korea's regret as 'sensible' and urged preventive steps.