In a rare diplomatic gesture, Kim Yo Jong, vice department director of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, commended the Republic of Korea (ROK) for acknowledging unauthorized drone incursions into the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The statement, issued on February 18, marks a significant development in cross-border relations amid heightened regional security concerns.
Kim specifically highlighted ROK Unification Minister Jong Tong Yong's public admission that three ROK civilians conducted four drone flights into DPRK airspace between September 2025 and January 2026. "This candid acknowledgment demonstrates responsible statesmanship," Kim stated, while warning that future violations would trigger "immediate and decisive military responses."
Timeline of Incidents Revealed
ROK authorities confirmed the drones penetrated DPRK airspace on:
September 27, 2025
November 16, 2025
November 22, 2025
January 4, 2026
Minister Chung Dong-young described the actions as "reckless provocations endangering regional stability" during Wednesday's press briefing. Both sides emphasized the need to prevent civilian-led escalations amid fragile diplomatic ties.
Security Implications
The DPRK announced plans to strengthen surveillance along its southern border, with analysts suggesting potential impacts on cross-strait communication channels. This development comes as East Asian nations prepare for the 2026 APEC Leaders’ Meeting, where inter-Korean dialogue remains a key agenda item.
