Seoul:North Korea denied responsibility for a recent mine blast in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), accusing South Korea of fabricating the findings and warning of potential retaliation if North Korean troops are targeted.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, responded to the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff's announcement that North Korean land mines likely caused the explosion on September 21, which injured three South Korean soldiers. Kim criticized South Korea for allegedly fabricating the results for political and military provocation against North Korea.

Kim stated that the North Korean military began constructing barriers in the southern border areas two years ago, emphasizing it as an exercise of sovereignty with no military intent. She claimed that North Korean soldiers have not crossed the border and accused South Korea of threatening their soldiers.

Kim warned that if South Korean forces fire upon North Korean soldiers working on border projects, North Korea will retaliate immediately and mercilessly. She also cautioned that continued accusations and provocations could escalate tensions.

The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff found a North Korean land mine near the explosion site after an inspection. Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul suggested the mine was intentionally planted and linked to efforts by Pyongyang to strengthen its border defenses. Kang indicated that mines had been placed at several locations south of the Military Demarcation Line, violating the Armistice Agreement from the Korean War, and stated that South Korea would take corresponding measures.

The South Korean military and U.N. Command are continuing their investigation and will release final findings after further analyses.