(LEAD) Defense ministry voices 'grave concern' over N. Korea heightening border tensions with threats

SEOUL, Oct. 20 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean defense ministry has expressed deep apprehension over North Korea's intensifying border tensions, threats, and its rebuke of South Korea's military actions in response to the North's repeated incursions, which violate the armistice agreement. This concern was voiced the day following Kim Yo-jong, Kim Jong-un's sister and North Korea's powerful political figure, warning of the resumption of propaganda broadcasts against Seoul and the deployment of additional tactical strike assets along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

Kim alleged that South Korea's border operations were designed to impede North Korea's border fortification efforts.

The defense ministry issued a statement expressing "grave concern" over Kim Yo-jong's criticism of South Korea's military operations conducted under the Armistice Agreement, as well as her increased military provocations. The ministry emphasized that the warning broadcasts and warning shots conducted by South Korea's military near the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) are defensive and legitimate measures aimed at preventing North Korean troops from crossing the MDL and to repel those that do.

The ministry warned that South Korea would respond decisively if North Korea escalates further provocations, utilizing the legitimate measures taken by Seoul as a justification for retaliation. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining consistent responses in alignment with the principles outlined in the Armistice Agreement, which concluded the 1950-53 Korean War.

The ministry also called upon North Korea to cease its unrealistic claims and incursions into the MDL and to engage in constructive dialogue with Seoul to resolve border-related issues.