Title: North Korea’s Powerful Sister Accuses US of Encroachment, Warns of Consequences
Subtitle: Kim Yo Jong claims US spy plane repelled by North Korean warplanes in exclusive economic zone
Date: July 10, 2023
Source: Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea — In a strong statement on Monday, Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, alleged that the country’s warplanes successfully repelled a U.S. spy plane that had flown over its exclusive economic zone. She warned of “shocking” consequences if the United States continues with its reconnaissance activities in the area, further escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Kim Yo Jong’s initial statement, published by state media on Monday evening, claimed that U.S. reconnaissance aircraft had violated North Korea’s territorial airspace multiple times on Monday, prompting North Korean warplanes to chase them away. She accused the United States of repeatedly intensifying its reconnaissance activities, which she said were encroaching on the North’s sovereignty and safety.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, however, denied the claims, stating that the U.S. had been conducting standard reconnaissance activities in coordination with South Korean military forces. Spokesperson Lee Sung Joon clarified that no spy planes had entered North Korean territory, dismissing Kim Yo Jong’s accusations as unfounded.
Nevertheless, Kim Yo Jong reiterated her concerns in a subsequent statement on Tuesday, emphasizing that the U.S. reconnaissance flights were infringing on North Korea’s sovereignty. She warned that if America persists with its spying operations in North Korea’s exclusive economic zone, the U.S. forces would face a “very critical flight” that could have unforeseen consequences.
This exchange comes amidst a backdrop of increased tensions on the Korean Peninsula, as North Korea continues to conduct weapon tests and the United States and South Korea conduct joint military exercises. Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has test-fired nearly 100 missiles, signaling Kim Jong Un’s determination to expand the country’s nuclear arsenal.
While Kim Yo Jong’s warnings have raised concerns, it remains unclear how the situation will develop moving forward. The exchange of statements reflects the fragile nature of the relationship between North Korea and the United States, with both sides engaged in a delicate balance of power.
As tensions persist, the international community will be closely monitoring the situation, hoping to avoid any further escalation that may hinder diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving peace on the Korean Peninsula.