North Korea threatens simultaneous barrage of 5,700 long-range artillery shells, ‘raining shells on the Seoul metropolitan area’.
North Korea has threatened to rain down 5,700 shells on the Seoul metropolitan area using its long-range artillery. This escalation in threats follows North Korea's declaration of heightened readiness across eight frontline artillery brigades, which are deployed along the western and eastern sections of the demilitarized zone, targeting the South Korean capital. The North is estimated to possess around 570 long-range artillery pieces, including 240mm and 300mm rocket launchers, capable of reaching Seoul and surrounding regions.
This development has significantly raised tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with South Korean forces also strengthening their counter-artillery preparations. Additionally, North Korea is reportedly preparing to blow up key transportation routes connecting the two Koreas, further intensifying military and political standoffs.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, has made repeated public statements holding the United States responsible for escalating tensions and threatening that any perceived violations of North Korean sovereignty, particularly regarding drone incursions, would result in consequences for both South Korea and the U.S.
South Korean military officials have heightened their surveillance and are preparing for any potential provocations from the North, which could involve artillery strikes, missile launches, or other forms of military aggression.