South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has expressed regret to North Korea regarding drone incursions into its airspace. The incidents, initially denied by Seoul, were later found to involve government officials following a probe. Lee described the actions as unnecessary and irresponsible.
The expression of regret came after drones flown by South Korean citizens entered North Korean airspace earlier this year. President Lee stressed Seoul’s commitment to preventing similar incidents in the future.
Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, offered rare praise for President Lee following the statement. His sister described Lee’s regret as “very fortunate and wise.”
The acknowledgment from Seoul followed a period where the South initially denied involvement in the surveillance flight that was downed by North Korea in January.