North Korean Resident Defects to South Korea Across Western Border Waters

A North Korean resident escaped to South Korea via the western border waters and expressed intent to resettle, indicating heightened tensions between the two nations. While the identity of the defector remains unknown, South Korea's National Intelligence Service is actively investigating the incident.

A North Korean resident crossed the western border waters to South Korea, expressing a desire to resettle.

The individual was apprehended by South Korean troops near Gyodong Island after traversing the estuary where the Han River merges with the Yellow Sea. Yonhap news, citing anonymous military sources, provided the initial report.

South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik acknowledged the incident in a parliamentary session, stating that the National Intelligence Service is investigating, though specifics were not disclosed. The defection highlights escalating tensions, as North Korea continues to leverage global conflicts to advance its weapons programs, prompting increased joint military exercises among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan.

(With inputs from agencies.)