Lee urges strict action over drone incident

Jan 21, 2026, 07:48 am

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President Lee Jae-myung speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Seoul on Jan. 20. / Yonhap

President Lee Jae-myung on Jan. 20 called for a thorough investigation and severe punishment over allegations that civilians sent drones into North Korean territory, saying such acts must never be repeated.

Presiding over a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office, Lee said it was unacceptable for civilians to illegally infiltrate North Korean areas with drones, stressing the need for strict sanctions following a full probe.

While noting that investigations are ongoing, the president added that there are claims suggesting possible involvement by state agencies, underscoring the need for a comprehensive inquiry and firm disciplinary measures.

Lee likened the incident to firing a gun into North Korean territory, warning that it could trigger conflict or constitute a preparatory act for war. He said individuals who personally invade another country are subject to punishment under existing laws.

Addressing Ahn Gyu-back, Lee questioned how drones could cross the border undetected despite advances in military technology. When Ahn replied that small drones appear only as tiny dots on radar, Lee said this effectively indicated a gap in the air defense system.

The president called for improvements in equipment if necessary, cautioning that unnecessary escalation of tensions and a confrontational atmosphere between the two Koreas would have negative economic repercussions.

Lee also urged careful management to prevent a breakdown of inter-Korean trust or a resurgence of hostility, and asked investigative authorities to conduct a swift and thorough probe.

#Lee Jae-myung #drone incident #North Korea #illegal launch #national security