North Korea has intensified its provocative actions against South Korea by launching hundreds of balloons filled with trash across the border, according to reports from South Korea’s military.

This latest move comes as retaliation for activists flying anti-North Korean leaflets into North Korean territory.

Over the weekend, approximately 600 balloons carrying cigarette butts, cloth scraps, waste paper, and vinyl were discovered in various parts of South Korea. Although no dangerous substances were detected, the South Korean military urged citizens to exercise caution and report any suspicious objects to authorities.

The escalation follows recent provocative acts by North Korea, including a failed spy satellite launch and a series of short-range missile launches aimed at demonstrating its ability to preemptively attack the South.

In response to the influx of trash-filled balloons, South Korea’s military deployed chemical rapid response and explosive clearance teams to recover debris from some 260 balloons found earlier in the week. North Korea’s powerful leader, Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, confirmed the North’s involvement, stating that the balloons were sent to fulfill the country’s threat of scattering waste in retaliation for leafleting campaigns.

South Korea’s Unification Ministry warned North Korea of "unbearable" consequences if provocations continue, but stated that shooting down the balloons was not an option due to concerns of causing damage and escalating tensions further.

North Korea’s sensitivity to outside influences underscores its commitment to maintaining absolute control over its population, most of whom have limited access to foreign news.

Tensions between North and South Korea have been heightened since 2020, with previous instances of retaliatory actions, including the destruction of a South Korean liaison office by North Korea last year.

The recent escalation raises concerns about the stability of the region and the potential for further conflict between the two Koreas.