Since May 2024, North Korea has significantly escalated its campaign of launching trash-filled balloons towards South Korea. In what is seen as retaliation against South Korean activists who send anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the border, over 2,000 balloons containing waste have been launched so far. These balloons, filled with non-hazardous materials such as paper, plastic, and cigarette butts, pose a growing nuisance in South Korea.

Recent Balloon Launches Surge

In early September 2024, North Korea intensified its efforts, sending approximately 190 balloons in a single operation. At least 100 of these trash balloons landed in the Seoul area and surrounding provinces, prompting South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) to issue warnings to the public about potential falling debris.

Historical Context of Balloon Campaign

By mid-July 2024, North Korea had conducted ten rounds of balloon launches, sending nearly 3,500 balloons across the border. These actions are viewed as North Korea’s response to psychological warfare from South Korean leafleting campaigns. Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has warned of further retaliatory measures should these activities persist.

Political Implications

The balloon campaign serves as a symbolic escalation in the ongoing tensions between the two Koreas. Alongside these provocations, North Korea recently launched short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, further heightening concerns in the region.