South Korea and the United States are currently conducting joint military exercises with live-fire drills near the border with North Korea, prompting a strong reaction from the North. According to reports from the Yonhap news agency, the exercises began on December 29 and are scheduled to conclude on January 5.
The Capital Mechanized Infantry Division of South Korea and the Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the US 2nd Infantry Division have been mobilized to participate in the exercises, which are taking place in the border city of Pochon, located 46 kilometers northeast of Seoul.
Various military assets are being utilized, including K1A2 tanks, A-19 fighter aircraft, Stryker armored vehicles, and artillery systems.
In response to these exercises, North Korean state media has stated that South Korea has started the new year with “self-destructive” actions and that the chances of clashes between the two sides are high.
On the other hand, South Korea has pointed out that North Korean forces have previously begun their own traditional exercises, which are expected to continue until spring.
On December 31, Kim Jong Un called on the North Korean army to continuously prepare for the conquest of South Korea.
On January 1, the North Korean leader threatened to destroy the capitals of the United States and South Korea.
Earlier, North Korea had discussed the possibility of abandoning talks with South Korea.
