Migrant workers on South Korea's Yeonpyeong Island, including Sri Lankan Siyam Mohamed and MJ Nimshan Dananjaya, are feeling fear and uncertainty as tensions rise with North Korea. The recent artillery fire from North Korea has brought back memories of a 2010 bombardment, causing concern for the safety of the migrant workers and their dreams of building a better future for their families back home. Despite the warm treatment from their employer and the beauty of the island, the geopolitical situation is casting a shadow over their experience.
North Korea fired shots into the sea near Yeonpyeong Island, which is located north of South Korea, according to a report by Yonhap news agency citing South Korea's military. The incident adds to the ongoing tensions between the two Koreas.
North Korea fired over 60 artillery rounds near Yeonpyeong Island, escalating tensions a day after both North and South Korea conducted live-fire drills in the contested maritime border area. This aggressive military action violates a 2018 agreement aimed at reducing hostilities and has led to the evacuation of residents to shelters. The South Korean military has warned of appropriate measures in response to these provocations, while experts call for moderation and dialogue to prevent further escalation. The situation is reminiscent of the 2010 incident when North Korea shelled Yeonpyeong Island, causing casualties and raising fears of war. The recent actions come amid North Korea's continued development of its nuclear arsenal and military capabilities, with leader Kim Jong Un emphasizing readiness for a potential military confrontation.
North Korea fired over 200 artillery shells towards Yeonpyeong Island, a South Korean border island, prompting South Korea to conduct live fire drills in response. The shells landed in a buffer zone, causing no damage or casualties but escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. This act of provocation follows North Korea's suspension of a military agreement with the South and its threats of war readiness. South Korea's Defence Minister emphasized the need for military readiness to deter further provocations. The incident marks a continuation of the strained relations between the two Koreas, with previous artillery firings and missile launches by North Korea despite the now-suspended military agreement.
