South Korea Considers Restoration of 2018 Inter-Korean Military Pact

The guns are silent, but the buffer remains broken. Seoul's now signaling a major shift back toward military de-escalation with Pyongyang, as officials weigh the return of a landmark security agreement.

Inside the Push for the Restoration of 2018 Inter-Korean Military Pact

According to Yonhap, National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac confirmed on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, that the government's considering restoring the suspended 2018 military pact. During a briefing in Japan, Wi described the restoration as the administration's "basic direction," noting that internal consultations are currently in progress.

The pact, originally signed by former President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in 2018, was designed to reduce border hostilities. However, it was fully suspended in 2024 amid surging tensions. Wi clarified that while no final conclusion's been reached, the goal is to stabilize the border environment.

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Drone Incursions and Legal Repercussions

The move comes alongside a sensitive investigation into alleged drone incursions. North Korea has accused the South of sending drones into its territory in September and again earlier this month. Seoul is now conducting an internal probe to identify the parties responsible for these flights.

Wi warned that if civilians are found to be behind the launches, it'd likely constitute a breach of both domestic law and the Armistice Agreement. Such findings would necessitate "appropriate measures and punishment," signaling that the government won't tolerate unauthorized activities that jeopardize national security.