Korea Balloon War

July 1, 2024

South Korean activists sent posters and USB drives with South Korean media into North Korea in May 2024. This started the latest “balloon war” round between the two countries. The group called “Fighters for Free North Korea” did this, and North Korea responded by sending trash- and maybe even manure-filled balloons back into South Korea.

Step-by-Step Explanation of the Escalation

In May 2024, South Korean activists start the war by using balloons to send propaganda over North Korean land.
At the end of May 2024, North Korea reacts by sending about 250 balloons full of trash into South Korea. That’s the start of a trade of balloon-launched items going both ways across the border.
Early in June 2024, North Korea sends out another wave of trash-filled balloons, making things even worse. As a response, South Korea starts playing news and K-pop songs over loudspeakers near the border.
In the middle of June 2024, tensions rise when Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, publicly condemned South Korea’s actions. This could lead to a worsening of tensions.

Historical Background

After World War II, in 1945, the Korean Peninsula was split into North Korea and South Korea. After that, there was the Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953. There was an armistice, but not a formal peace treaty, so the two Koreas were still legally at war. Since then, there have been different levels of conflict and diplomatic activity on the peninsula. North Korea’s nuclear goals have made things more difficult.

Use of Balloons in Psychological Warfare

Korean War: Leaflets were dropped from balloons to encourage North Korean and Chinese men to leave the army.
After the Cold War and Beyond: The United States and South Korea kept sending propaganda rockets into North Korea that were against communism.

Technological Evolution in Balloon Warfare

“Smart balloons” are a result of modern progress. They have technology that lets them send messages deep into North Korea. To get around North Korea’s information blockade, these balloons can carry handouts and pre-recorded messages that can be played on speakers.

Legal and Social Implications

In 2020, the South Korean government first banned balloon launches because they were worried about security. However, a court later lifted the ban, saying that people had the right to free speech. However, the practice is still controversial, with some South Koreans worried about retaliation from the North and questioning how safe and effective such efforts are.

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