(EDITORIAL from Korea JoongAng Daily on Sept. 30)

The recent mine explosions near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) have raised questions about accountability and responsibility. The Joint Chiefs of Staff suspect North Korean involvement, and investigators discovered an additional suspected North Korean mine near the incident site. Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul called the incident a clear violation of the armistice as soon as the September 21 event occurred.

However, President Lee Jae Myung's first public comments, eight days later, downplayed the issue, referring to it as a "land mine accident" and dismissing the possibility of North Korean involvement or an armistice violation. This cautious approach, while understandable, fails to satisfy the public's demand for facts and accountability.

Critics within the ruling camp, such as National Assembly National Defense Committee Chair Jin Sung-joon, argue that North Korea's actions could be defensive, making it difficult to conclude they were deliberately placed to harm Korean soldiers. However, if North Korea did plant mines south of the military demarcation line (MDL), this would be an armistice violation. The government must not require proof of intent to kill before taking action, as the military's own response also warrants scrutiny.

Since 2024, North Korea has been constructing roads, fortifications, and laying mines around the MDL. The Korean military and security authorities should have been more vocal in protesting these activities and taking measures to prevent them. If their response was insufficient, it is essential to identify failures in command and border security and establish accountability.

The possibility that allowing North Korea's mine-laying contributed to the current situation cannot be dismissed. A thorough investigation into these matters is crucial to prevent future incidents and hold those responsible accountable.