After the latest launch failure of a rocket carrying a military satellite after liftoff, North Korea has another gimmick to surprise its neighbor.

In an unusual and alarming development, South Korea has issued a warning to its border residents about hot air balloons from North Korea carrying hazardous items. This comes as more than 150 balloons, some still airborne, were reported to be carrying objects including trash and excrement.

Balloons Carrying Hazardous Materials

What North Korea released are not just ordinary balloons that we usually see at parties; they are hot air balloons that contain dangerous items, South Korea-based news agency Yonhap reports.

Some of these balloons had traveled long distances, even reaching the southeastern province of South Gyeongsang. This bizarre tactic is part of a long history of both nations using balloons for propaganda since the Korean War in the 1950s.

Related Article: North Korea Fails to Put Another Spy Satellite Into Orbit as Rocket Carrying It Explodes Shortly After Liftoff

North Korean Satellite Failure

North Korea seems to enjoy every second of "flexing" its military capabilities. Although its rocket carrying a military satellite exploded after launch, it even managed to report another arsenal meant to annoy South Korea.

The rocket hailed from the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground on the northwest coast of North Korea. It could mean that this is perfect timing for Kim Jong Un to escalate the tension along the border.

Escalating Border Tensions

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) in South Korea reported that the fallen balloons were carrying various types of rubbish, including plastic bottles, batteries, shoe parts, and what is believed to be manure.

"These acts by North Korea clearly violate international law and seriously threaten our people's safety. We sternly warn North Korea to stop its inhumane and vulgar act immediately," the JCS stated.

For their safety, South Koreans were advised not to touch any items that would come out of the balloons. In case of the sightings, a resident should immediately report it to the relevant officials.

North Korea's Response to Leaflet Campaigns

The balloon incident came shortly after North Korea announced plans to retaliate against the "frequent scattering of leaflets and other rubbish" by South Korean activists in border areas. 

Kim Kang Il, North Korea's vice minister of defense, told the state media that the balloons were filled with "wastepaper and filth." Through his words, we can see that removing these items won't be an easy job.

Historical Context of Conflict

The Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953, resulted in at least 2.5 million deaths and left Korea divided into two hostile states: the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in the north and the Republic of Korea (ROK) in the south. 

Despite the armistice in 1953, tensions have remained high, with the border area being a focal point for ongoing conflict and propaganda.

Activist Use of Balloons for Propaganda

In recent years, South Korean activists and North Korean defectors have used balloons to send various materials into North Korea, Interesting Engineering reports.

These materials include leaflets criticizing the North Korean regime and calling for the overthrow of the Kim dynasty. They have also sent USB memory sticks loaded with K-pop music videos, which are banned in North Korea.

As the situation evolves, it is crucial for South Korean residents near the border to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The international community continues to watch these developments closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the enduring commotion.

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