Security chief warns on drones, reviews 9.19 pact

Jan 15, 2026, 07:57 am

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Wi Sung-lac, head of South Korea’s National Security Office, briefs reporters on the key outcomes of the Korea-Japan summit at the Korea Press Center in Osaka on Jan. 14. / Yonhap

Wi Sung-lac, head of South Korea’s National Security Office, said Wednesday that if there is any possibility civilian actors were involved in sending drones, those responsible should be punished under the law, as the government continues discussions on restoring the Sept. 19 inter-Korean military agreement.

Speaking at a press conference at the Korea Press Center in Nara Prefecture, Japan, Wi addressed North Korea’s claim that South Korean drones had infiltrated its airspace. He said the government has found no indication that the military or authorities were involved and stressed the need to examine whether civilians could have carried out such acts.

“If civilians sent drones, that carries a very high likelihood of violating current laws and also breaches the Armistice Agreement, so it cannot be ignored,” Wi said. He added that the government is reviewing the matter internally as a necessary step, not simply because North Korea raised the issue.

At the same time, Wi emphasized the importance of a balanced approach, noting that North Korea has repeatedly sent drones into the South. “North Korea has sent drones to the presidential office and to Yongsan on multiple occasions. These are also violations of the Armistice Agreement,” he said, calling for restraint on both sides and efforts to prevent further violations.

Addressing speculation that the drone controversy could open the door to renewed inter-Korean dialogue, Wi struck a cautious tone. “Some may take an optimistic view, but from a working-level perspective, we are not at that point,” he said, adding that any assessment must consider the legal framework, the armistice system and overall tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

Wi also said the government, following instructions from President Lee Jae-myung, is holding discussions on restoring the September 19 Inter-Korean Military Agreement. While reaffirming the administration’s direction, he cautioned that multiple related factors must be weighed and that aligning internal views and preparing contingency plans would require considerable time.

#Wi Sung-lac #National Security Office #drones #North Korea #Armistice Agreement