Tensions between North Korea and South Korea have heightened once again, as the South Korean military has warned North Korea against advancing its spy satellite program. On Monday, Seoul stated that it could suspend inter-Korean peace agreements and resume aerial surveillance in response to the satellite launch.

North Korea has faced failures in its attempts to launch a military spy satellite into orbit, with two failed attempts earlier this year and no attempt made in October. South Korean officials have indicated that North Korea may be delaying the satellite launch because it is receiving technical assistance from Russia and could complete the launch in the coming days.

In a statement, Kang Hopil, a senior South Korean military officer, urged North Korea to immediately cancel its third launch attempt. Kang stated that if North Korea proceeds with the satellite launch despite their warning, the South Korean military will take necessary steps to safeguard the lives and security of its people.

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik, in an interview with public broadcaster KBS on Sunday, said that the launch is expected to take place by the end of this month, and South Korean and American officials are closely monitoring North Korea’s activities.

North Korea is receiving assistance from Russia, which has banned any satellite launches by North Korea as it considers it a testing of its missile technology. Kang stated that North Korea needs a spy satellite for improved surveillance by South Korea, but the launch also aims to further advance its long-range missile program.

South Korea has accused North Korea of seeking Russian technology in exchange for supplying traditional weapons in support of Russia’s war efforts. In return, North Korea seeks to enhance its nuclear and other military capabilities.

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