Why North Korea Keeps Sending Balloons Carrying Trash Into South Korea

Tensions have grown along the heavily militarized Korea border zone after the North sent over about 2,000 balloons carrying trash. In response, South Korea briefly resumed the first loudspeaker broadcasts meant to antagonize Pyongyang, and days later, warning shots were fired after North Korean soldiers crossed into its territory and retreated. The back and forth moves raise concerns of an unexpected escalation that could spiral out of control.

Many held a few kilograms of trash, including waste paper, cigarette butts and used batteries, according to South Korea’s military and police. In some cases there was animal manure in the mix. In late June, South Korea’s Unification Ministry said an examination on dozens of the more than 1,600 balloons sent across since late May showed parasites associated with fecal matter being carried along with underwear, neckties and socks that had been cut into pieces. Residents were advised not to touch their contents. A couple of balloons even made it near the office of President Yoon Suk Yeol, Yonhap News reported.