North Korea’s Trash Balloons Terrorize Skyways

By Admin

Since May 28, North Korea has launched a series of six attacks on South Korea, releasing a total of more than 2,000 trash balloons.

These provocations have drawn significant attention from the international community and South Koreans, who are more accustomed to news of missile launches.

North Korea, which joined the United Nations in 1991, has exhibited behavior that suggests it has abandoned its statehood and embraced its status as an abnormal state.

The trash balloon attacks, alongside its missile programs, underscore the regime’s prioritization of military aggression over the well-being of its citizens. Despite initial hopes for improvement under Kim Jong Un, the dictatorship has only intensified its control, worsened human rights conditions, and allowed the economy to deteriorate.

The trash balloons have caused considerable damage in South Korea. They have damaged citizens’ vehicles, home windows, and rooftops, and even caused fires due to malfunctioning detonators. These incidents have not only led to significant property damage but also posed a real threat to human safety.

On June 26, the balloons disrupted operations at Incheon International Airport, leading to controlled takeoffs and landings due to the risk of foreign objects being sucked into airplane engines.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the balloons, weighing about 10 kilograms each, could cause fatal accidents if they collided with aircraft.

A recent analysis by South Korea’s Ministry of Unification revealed alarming details about the contents of the trash balloons.

Soil samples contained numerous parasites, including roundworms and whipworms, suggesting that the waste came from human food sources.

The presence of human genes in the soil indicates poor sanitation and the use of human fertilizer in North Korea.

Additionally, the balloons contained heavily worn clothing items, including children’s garments, highlighting the dire living conditions in North Korea.

North Korea’s provocations are a threat not only to South Korea but also to the international community. The risk extends to all citizens traveling to and from South Korea.

The international community is urged to condemn North Korea’s actions as serious acts of terrorism. This issue challenges international order and security, and there is concern that future provocations could involve biological or chemical agents.

The international community must hold the Kim Jong Un regime accountable for these provocations. Strong condemnation and collective pressure are necessary to ensure that North Korea ceases its aggressive actions.

Addressing these provocations is crucial for maintaining global security and protecting the daily lives and safety of people worldwide.

**Park Yoo-sung is a Researcher at International Activities Team, North Korea Institute