The Ministry of National Defense proposed inter-Korean military talks to North Korea today (October 23) to resolve discrepancies regarding the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) within the Demilitarized Zone, which have been a source of military confrontation between the two Koreas.

After first proposing military authorities' talks in November last year to address the issue of establishing the MDL baseline, the ministry has renewed its proposal as military tensions have escalated along the MDL following incidents including landmine explosions by North Korean troops.

Kim Hong-cheol, Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy at the Ministry of National Defense, issued a statement saying, "We formally propose to North Korean authorities that we hold inter-Korean military authorities' talks to mutually verify the clear location of the ground Military Demarcation Line, restore military communication lines, and discuss measures to prevent accidental clashes in border areas."

Referring to a South Korean service member who was severely injured on September 21 by an explosion of a North Korean landmine planted south of the MDL, Kim pointed out, "Considering the reality of military confrontation between the South and the North along the MDL, if this situation continues to be left unaddressed, it is difficult to foresee what other situations may arise."

He continued, "The anticipated damage will not be limited to any one side," stressing, "Discrepancies in perception between the two sides over the location of parts of the MDL remain, and without extraordinary measures, troops will conduct operations based on their own understanding of its location, which is a factor that heightens the risk of accidental clashes."

Kim underscored the need for talks, noting that the recent increase in North Korean activities along the MDL and the South's warning broadcasts and warning shots are not unrelated to these circumstances.

Kim said, "If necessary, three-party talks including the United Nations Command are also possible.

Specific schedules and venues can be coordinated through Panmunjom," adding, "We look forward to a positive response from the North."

Defense authorities reportedly consulted with the United Nations Command, which oversees the implementation of the Armistice Agreement, prior to announcing the proposal for talks.

(Photo: Yonhap News)