SEOUL, Sept. 16 (UPI) — North Korea denounced Washington and Seoul for provocations after U.S. and South Korean Marines conducted a reenactment of the historical Battle of Inchon on Tuesday.
The Battle of Inchon, known as Operation Chromite, was an amphibious invasion that led to a decisive victory during the 1950-53 Korean War for the U.N. command. Yonhap reported the Sept. 15 re-enactment was staged to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the battle led under Gen. Douglas MacArthur.
Pyongyang said in a statement posted on propaganda outlet Uriminzokkiri South Korea was engaging in a provocative act — only days after announcing its plans to launch satellites, and disclosing a nuclear weapons plant in Yongbyon has resumed operations.
“South Korea’s military forces are scattering the smell of gunpowder, even as the date of the reunion of separated families draws closer,” North Korea said.
Pyongyang said South Korea was operating at the “height of shamelessness,” and that at a time of “reconciliation and cooperation” South Korea was engaging in acts of provocation.
“Our rising anger and strong expressions of concern regarding military provocations are righteous responses,” North Korea said.
Kyunghyang Shinmun reported Pyongyang said South Korea was “playing with fire,” and the Incheon reenactment was incompatible with efforts to improve inter-Korea relations.
“It would be a good idea for South Korea’s authorities to put an end to foolish acts that…do more harm than good, in order to put aside obstacles to our agreement.”
South Korea press reported the statement was likely part of a series of incendiary remarks North Korea has made regarding its own defense measures.
On Wednesday, North Korea’s state newspaper Rodong Sinmun said Pyongyang holds the United States responsible for “aggravating the situation on the Korean peninsula,” and for the resumption of nuclear operations in Yongbyon.
