South Korea has pledged a swift and thorough investigation into recent drone incursions into North Korean airspace, while firmly stating it has no intention of provoking its northern neighbour. The announcement follows a pointed warning from Pyongyang demanding accountability for the airspace violations.
Seoul's Stance on Provocation
The administration of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung moved to clarify its position on Sunday, 11 January 2026. Through its Office of National Security, Seoul reaffirmed its official stance of having no intention of provocation against North Korea. The government emphasised it would quickly release the findings of its probe into the drone incidents, which Pyongyang claims originated from the South.
Kim Yo Jong's Warning and Call for Investigation
The South's statement came in response to remarks from Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. In a statement carried by state media KCNA on Sunday, she urged Seoul to investigate the recent drone flights. North Korea's military had claimed on Saturday that drones were flown from South Korea into its airspace earlier this month, following another alleged intrusion in September.
Ms Kim stated she appreciated Seoul's "wise decision" to announce its non-provocative stance but issued a stark warning. "Any provocations will result in terrible situations," she said. She insisted that, regardless of whether a civilian organisation or individual was responsible, the South Korean authorities could not evade responsibility for the breach of airspace.
Background and Diplomatic Context
This incident occurs against a backdrop of strained relations. Since leader Kim Jong Un redefined the two Koreas as separate, "hostile" nations at the end of 2023, North Korea has not responded to any of Seoul's calls for dialogue. Despite this, the administration of President Lee Jae Myung continues to seek improved ties and has proposed military talks.
South Korea's immediate response to the North's initial claim on Saturday was to deny any military involvement in operating the drones, suggesting the possibility of civilian activity. The promised investigation will now seek to establish the precise facts behind the incursions.
