Military: DMZ Explosion Likely Caused by North Korean Landmine

Military authorities have determined that the explosion that occurred on September 21 in the western front of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is likely caused by a North Korean landmine. They stated that if the investigation confirms the presence of North Korean mines, appropriate measures will be taken.

During a briefing on September 28, Major General Kwon Dae-won, head of the joint task force investigating the landmine explosion, said, "We assess that the cause of this explosion is very likely a North Korean landmine."

The military concluded that the possibility of the explosion being caused by South Korean mines is low, based on the shape of the explosion crater, the nature of the flames, the extent of injuries to the affected soldiers, and testimonies from personnel at the scene.

It has been confirmed that there are no records of South Korean mines being laid at the explosion site. However, traces of North Korean mines were found nearby during an investigation conducted in September of last year.

Additionally, the military released preliminary findings from the National Forensic Service regarding the equipment of the injured soldiers. The analysis revealed the presence of trinitrotoluene (TNT) and brown substances in the soldiers' gear.

Major General Kwon explained that the absence of metal fragments, along with the detection of the brown substance, confirms that the explosion was not caused by South Korean mines. It is reported that North Korean wooden box mines typically contain about 220 grams of TNT.

During the investigation, testimonies indicated that a brown-colored North Korean resin anti-personnel mine was found approximately one meter from the first explosion site. This type of mine is made of plastic.

Based on testimonies stating that two mines exploded at the time of the incident and that an additional mine was discovered during the withdrawal process, the military believes that a total of three mines were present in the area.

The explosion site was located about 10 meters south of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) and approximately 10 meters from an area where North Korean mines are suspected to have been recently laid.

The South Korean military and the United Nations Command conducted a two-day on-site investigation starting September 27. The military plans to announce the final results after evaluating them with the UN Command.

Major General Kwon stated that if the final investigation determines that the mines were laid by North Korea, "Our soldiers, who were conducting DMZ operations normally south of the MDL, were injured by North Korean mines. All responsibility for this lies with North Korea. Our military will implement appropriate and corresponding measures."