In response to the blasts, Seoul began broadcasting anti-North Korea propaganda across the DMZ – a practice both sides had abandoned 11 years ago.
“We need a clear apology and measures to prevent a recurrence of these provocations and this tense situation. Otherwise, this government will take the appropriate steps and continue its loudspeaker broadcasts,” said the South Korean president.
On Thursday (August 20) an exchange of artillery fire over the DMZ saw Pyongyang issue its neighbour with an ultimatum: stop broadcasting by Saturday or face military action.
Although Seoul refused, top officials from the two states agreed to meet in the Panmunjom truce village in the DMZ. Marathon talks ensued, which were still in progress when Park Geun-hye issued its demand for an apology.
State-run television in Pyongyang has released its own propaganda, purporting to show North Korea’s citizens readying for a fight.
More about:
