Seoul: A recent revision to the Aviation Safety Act is anticipated to put an end to activists' launches of propaganda leaflets across the border into North Korea, aligning with government efforts to ease military tensions with the North, according to the unification ministry.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry's statement followed the National Assembly's approval of a revision to the Aviation Safety Act, spearheaded by the ruling Democratic Party. This revision bans the flight of any self-floating objects in restricted areas, effectively making it illegal for activists to send large helium-filled balloons carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets over the inter-Korean border. Previously, objects carrying materials under 2 kilograms were exempt from these restrictions.

The unification ministry noted in a release that the revised law is likely to halt the distribution of anti-North leaflets, which have been a point of contention in inter-Korean relations and a potential threat to safety and peace in border regions. This legislative change is part of President Lee Jae Myung's administration's broader strategy to reduce military tensions and build trust with North Korea, including suspending other anti-Pyongyang activities.

Despite the government's intentions, the main opposition People Power Party strongly opposed the revision's passage, accusing the ruling party of reinstating a ban on leaflet campaigns, which they argue infringes on the right to free expression.