South Korea fires warning shots at North Korean soldiers who crossed the border for the first time this year

South Korean troops fired warning shots last week after a group of North Korean soldiers crossed the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) that separates the two countries, Yonhap reported.

The North Korean soldiers returned to their side after the shooting, a South Korean government source said Sunday.

According to the source, several North Korean soldiers crossed the line in the eastern part of the border zone. They were allegedly patrolling the area and accidentally crossed the demarcation line.

This is the first time this year that South Korean troops have fired warning shots in response to a North Korean border violation. There had been no such incidents in 2026.

Under current rules of engagement, if North Korean soldiers approach the demarcation line, South Korea first issues a warning over loudspeakers. If they cross it, the troops fire warning shots.

In recent years, North Korean troops have repeatedly violated the military demarcation line. The DPRK has been strengthening its position along the border since leader Kim Jong-un declared in late 2023 that relations with South Korea should be viewed as those of "two hostile states."

In 2025, North Korean troops violated the military demarcation line 17 times.