Seoul:South Korea's top military officer has directed troops to respond sternly to any provocations from North Korea. This directive follows North Korea's threats to increase its military presence along the inter-Korean border and resume propaganda broadcasts.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the directive was issued by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Jin Yong-sung during a visit to a front-line unit. He criticized Pyongyang for blaming Seoul for the escalating tensions after a land mine explosion on September 21 injured three South Korean soldiers.

The South Korean defense ministry has expressed "grave concern" over North Korea's recent threats and criticisms of South Korea's military actions following the mine blast. The ministry highlighted concerns over Kim Yo-jong's statements criticizing South Korea's operations, which were conducted under the Armistice Agreement.

In response to the rising tensions, the unification ministry has urged North Korea to refrain from further escalating actions and to engage in dialogue. This appeal was made after threats from Kim Yo-jong to deploy more weapons near the border and resume broadcasts targeting South Korea.

Additionally, South Korea plans to address the United Nations Security Council, urging North Korea to apologize for the land mine incident, which violated the Armistice Agreement. The investigation concluded that the mines were planted by North Korea south of the Military Demarcation Line.

The situation highlights ongoing tensions and the South Korean government's attempts to mitigate potential confrontations through diplomatic and military channels.