S. Korean Soldier Accidentally Fires Machine Gun at Inter-Korean Border

Seoul: A South Korean soldier at the inter-Korean border accidentally fired a machine gun toward North Korea last week, prompting the military to air broadcasts to notify the North of the mistake, military officials said Sunday. The incident occurred at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday when the soldier mistakenly discharged a single round from the K6 heavy machine gun at a guard post within the Demilitarized Zone in Cheorwon County, about 70 kilometers north of Seoul.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the South Korean military promptly informed North Korea of the incident by broadcasting messages to prevent potential misunderstandings. Military officials added that they believe the round did not reach North Korean territory, as it passed through a reinforced door, likely decelerating its trajectory.

The South Korean military has not detected any unusual activity from the North Korean military following the incident. The situation remains calm, with no immediate signs of escalation or response from North Korea.