South Korean Defense Chief Proposes Joint Inter-Korean Drone Probe via UNC
South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back proposes a joint probe with North Korea via the UNC regarding drone incursion claims. Read about the civilian drone theory and more.
Could a joint investigation bridge the growing divide on the Korean Peninsula? Defense MinisterAhn Gyu-back just opened a new door for dialogue by suggesting a joint inter-Korean probe into North Korea's claims of drone incursions. The proposal hinges on using the United Nations Command (UNC) as a neutral mediator to settle the sovereignty dispute.
Ahn Gyu-back Eyes Inter-Korean Joint Drone Probe
According to Yonhap, during a parliamentary session on January 12, 2026, Ahn stated he's "thinking of suggesting a joint inter-Korean probe through the UNC," provided the North returns the drones in question. Pyongyang's military recently alleged that South Korea violated its sovereignty by sending drones into its territory in September and on January 4. While Seoul's defense ministry officially denies military involvement, they're not ruling out civilian activity.
Civilian Involvement and the Role of the UNC
When lawmakers asked if civilians likely sent the drones, Ahn replied, "I assume so." In response to the escalating claims, a joint team of 30 police and military officials has launched an investigation following a direct order from President Lee Jae Myung. The UNC, which oversees the DMZ, remains the primary enforcer of the armistice that halted the Korean War.
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