Lee Warns of Drone-Detection Gap After Alleged Incursion Into North Korea

Seoul, Jan. 20 — South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday warned of a potential gap in the country's drone-monitoring system after Pyongyang said a civilian-operated drone from the South entered North Korean airspace. North Korea released photographs of debris and aerial images it said had been taken by the drone, heightening tensions on the peninsula.

A South Korean task force investigating the incident has summoned a civilian suspect for questioning, and police said the probe is ongoing. President Lee called for a thorough examination of how the flight went undetected and for steps to close any monitoring loopholes.

"It should not happen for a civilian to send a drone to North Korea for an illegal purpose," Lee said at a televised cabinet meeting. "How did we fail to check that a drone had been flown to the North?"

Lee said such a flight was "akin to starting a war," arguing it creates needless tension that could harm relations and have adverse economic effects in the South. He warned that if a South Korean citizen is found responsible, they could face criminal charges for provoking Pyongyang.

Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, last week urged Seoul to investigate and warned that provocations could lead to "terrible situations." Lee has sought to improve ties with Pyongyang since taking office, but his overtures have so far been rebuffed.

Next Steps

Authorities said they are working to identify and close any gaps in aerial monitoring and to prevent future incursions. The investigation remains active as officials review detection systems, civilian drone regulations and enforcement measures.