[Anchor]

The presidential office stated that President Lee Jae-myung's description of the western front landmine explosion as an "untoward accident" during his Armed Forces Day address was made in the context of consoling the injured soldiers. Regarding the resumption of loudspeaker broadcasts toward North Korea, which has been raised by some as a corresponding measure, Unification Minister Chung Dong-young said it would be an extremely dangerous move.

Reporter Kang Min-u reports.

[Reporter]

President Lee Jae-myung used the expression "untoward accident" in his Armed Forces Day address yesterday (October 1).

[President Lee Jae-myung (Yesterday): "It still breaks my heart to think of our soldiers who were injured in an untoward accident in the Demilitarized Zone."]

Regarding this expression, which carries the dictionary definition of an "accident that occurred unexpectedly," the conservative opposition unleashed criticism, saying, "They defined an obvious act of aggression as an unexpected accident, as if someone simply tripped while walking down the street."

In response, the presidential office reaffirmed President Lee's principle that "special sacrifices for the country warrant special treatment and respect," explaining as follows:

[Sung Ki-hong / Senior Presidential Secretary for Public Communication (SBS Radio 'Kim Tae-hyun's Political Show'): "The context in which the expression 'untoward accident' was used was to console the wounded soldiers who were severely injured due to that incident and to encourage and comfort their families."]

He also emphasized that there is no change in the stance of taking stern and necessary measures against North Korea based on a thorough investigation.

[Sung Ki-hong / Senior Presidential Secretary for Public Communication (SBS Radio 'Kim Tae-hyun's Political Show'): "(Are you also reviewing corresponding measures?) Yes, we are reviewing necessary measures."]

However, the government's dilemma is deepening over what would constitute a "resolute corresponding measure that does not escalate military tensions."

The government appears to be drawing a line against resuming loudspeaker broadcasts toward North Korea, which the conservative opposition has called for.

[Chung Dong-young / Minister of Unification: "Some argue that 'loudspeaker broadcasts should be resumed,' but that is irresponsible and extremely dangerous."]

An official from the presidential office stated, "There is currently no discussion on what specific corresponding measures will be taken."

Within the presidential office, the prevailing sentiment is to maintain a cautious stance, prioritizing compensation and proper treatment for the wounded soldiers over aggressive moves against North Korea.

(Video by Jeong Sang-bo, Ha Ryung | Video Editing by Nam Il | Graphics by Han Heung-soo)