North Korean balloons: Trash carrying Ballons To South Korea
Since Tuesday night, about 260 balloons flown from North Korea have been discovered across South Korea. These balloons carried various types of trash and manure, but there’s no apparent danger. An initial investigation showed that the trash tied to the balloons doesn’t contain any dangerous substances like chemical, biological, or radioactive materials.
Contents of the Balloons
The balloons contained a curious mix of waste and discarded items:
- Manure: Yes, you read that right. North Korea sent balloons filled with manure, adding a pungent twist to their message.
- Cigarette Butts: A rather unorthodox choice, but it seems North Korea wanted to make a statement.
- Scrap Cloth: Perhaps a nod to recycling, the balloons also carried scraps of cloth.
- Waste Batteries: These were part of the payload, although their purpose remains unclear.
- Diapers: An unexpected addition, diapers were also among the items.
Why balloons?
Why did North Korea engage in this peculiar balloon campaign?
- Response to Leafleting Campaigns: South Korean activists have been conducting leafleting campaigns, sending propaganda leaflets across the border. North Korea’s balloon launches were a direct response to these actions.
- Stoking Division: By sending trash-filled balloons, North Korea aimed to create division within South Korea, particularly over its conservative government’s stance on North Korea.
- U.S. Presidential Election Influence: Experts speculate that North Korea may continue such provocations in the lead-up to the U.S. presidential election, potentially impacting international politics.
History
- Cold War Tactics: Flying balloons with propaganda leaflets and other items was common during the Cold War between the two Koreas.
- Psychological Warfare: Flying balloons with propaganda leaflets and other items is one of the most common types of psychological warfare the two Koreas used against each other during the Cold War. While both sides have agreed to halt such activities in recent years, tensions occasionally lead to their resumption.
- Agreement and Tensions: While both Koreas agreed to halt such activities in recent years, occasional tensions lead to their resumption.
North Korea’s trash-carrying balloons serve as a unique form of provocation, blending historical tactics with modern twists.
