The South Korean military has issued a stern warning to North Korea, urging the country to immediately halt preparations for another military spy satellite launch. Kang Ho-pil, chief director of operations at the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), made the statement following South Korea’s defense chief’s prediction of a potential satellite launch attempt by North Korea in the coming week.

In his warning, Kang emphasized that North Korea should stop its “military reconnaissance satellite” launch, and if it proceeds despite the warning, the South Korean military will take necessary measures to ensure the safety of its people. Although he did not specify the exact actions that would be taken, it is clear that they would be in response to the potential threat posed by the satellite launch.

This would not be the first time North Korea has attempted such launches. In May and August of this year, the country made unsuccessful attempts to put reconnaissance satellites into orbit. However, these attempts violate the United Nations Security Council sanctions resolutions, which prohibit North Korea from utilizing ballistic missile technology.

South Korea is also making preparations for its own satellite launch. The country is set to launch its first indigenous reconnaissance satellite on November 30. The Defense Minister, Shin Won-sik, indicated that North Korea may try to launch their spy satellite before this date. The South Korean military’s warning, therefore, highlights the escalating tensions in the region surrounding these satellite launches.

The South Korean military’s firm stance serves as a clear message to North Korea, emphasizing the consequences that would follow if they proceed with the launch. As tensions on the Korean Peninsula continue to rise, the international community will be closely monitoring developments and the actions taken by both North and South Korea.