In the wake of heightened tensions and North Korea’s recent intercontinental ballistic missile test, South Korean military, police, and emergency personnel engaged in uncommon defense drills in Seoul. The exercises aimed to prepare for potential threats, given the city’s vulnerability to North Korea’s weapons and covert attacks.
Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon emphasized the significance of learning from international incidents, citing the Gaza conflict as a key lesson. He noted that even advanced defense systems, such as Israel’s, faced challenges during a surprise attack by Hamas using conventional artillery.
The simulated drills in Seoul included scenarios involving attacks on critical infrastructure like water supply facilities, telephone network stations, and underground communication and power cable corridors. These measures come on the heels of South Korea imposing new sanctions on individuals linked to North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.
Seoul, situated just 38 km from the North Korean border, remains at risk due to its proximity, serving as the center for government, business, and finance, with a population of 9.4 million residents. Mayor Oh Se-hoon advocated for a more robust stance against North Korea, proposing the acquisition of South Korea’s own nuclear weapons. However, this suggestion contrasts with President Yoon Suk Yeol’s approach, focusing on strengthening the military alliance with the United States and restoring security ties with Japan.
