Kim Minseok: "DMZ Explosion Caused by North Korean Landmines... Condemning North Korea’s Denial and Fabrication Claims"

Kim Minseok Directly Criticizes Kim Yo-jong's Statement
"Comprehensive Review Needed of Border Fortification Response under Yoon Administration"

Kim Minseok, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, condemned North Korea and demanded an apology in connection with the DMZ explosion incident on the 30th.

At the Democratic Party Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly that day, Kim stated, "It is being revealed that the DMZ explosion incident was caused by landmines planted by the North Korean side south of the Military Demarcation Line," adding, "We condemn North Korea's violation of the Armistice Agreement." He went on to say, "We further criticize and condemn the attitude of the North Korean authorities, who deny responsibility and claim it is a self-fabricated act," emphasizing, "They must issue an apology and take corrective action."

Kim Yeo-jung, Deputy Director of the Workers' Party of Korea and sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, stated in a commentary regarding the landmine explosion that it was a "self-directed farce by Seoul," claiming, "The behavior of these South Koreans, who first shift responsibility to others and fabricate 'physical evidence' to prove it, is the height of absurdity and nonsense."

Kim Minseok also called on the military to take appropriate countermeasures. He said, "It is necessary to review the overall response to North Korea’s so-called 'border reinforcement' measures that began in early 2024 under the Yoon Suk Yeol administration," and added, "I once again offer my condolences to the wounded commanders, soldiers, and their families, and will ensure that proper medical treatment and compensation are thoroughly provided and reviewed."

Kim Minseok, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is delivering opening remarks at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 30th. 2026.09.30 Photo by Yoon Dongju

He added, "Tomorrow is Armed Forces Day," and reaffirmed, "The Democratic Party pledges once again to strengthen crisis management and improve the working conditions of our armed forces, based on a robust defense posture and unwavering commitment to national security."

Regarding the party–government discussions on the “Future Response Fund” that took place the previous day with Democratic Party metropolitan mayors and governors, Kim said, "In addition to future response measures, we will work to expand local fiscal resources and enhance their autonomy, so that essential regional projects can proceed without setbacks, with the party, the government, and local governments joining forces." He added, "We will prepare rational and effective alternatives through continuous communication and gathering of opinions."

On the party–government discussions, he stated, "I agree with the intent to use the large-scale tax surplus from the semiconductor boom for medium- to long-term future investments and to prepare for tax revenue fluctuations." However, he also expressed, "I deeply empathize with the difficulties local governments face with local finances."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.