N. Korean official says S. Korea to become target of 'collective punishment'

North Korea has denounced a recent comment by the commander of U.S. Forces Korea, stating that South Korea has become a target of collective punishment rather than a center for collective defense. The statement was made by Kang Chol-su, a senior official at North Korea's Institute of Enemy State Studies, in a commentary published by the Korean Central News Agency.

Kang accused the United States of using South Korea as a "key base for implementing its hegemonic strategy" and as "mercenaries in the regional conflict." When questioned by U.S. Forces Korea Commander Xavier Brunson about the reconfiguration of security on the Korean peninsula, Kang emphasized the necessity for South Korea and the United States to cooperate in addressing external threats.

This assertion is seen as further evidence of North Korea's growing skepticism towards South Korea's role in defense and highlights the potential for heightened tensions in the region.