South Korea probes if spies funded drones flown into North by student

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Park Chan-kyongJanuary 20, 2026 at 08:27 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has ordered an investigation into allegations that the Korea Defence Intelligence Command (KDIC) financially supported a graduate student, identified as Oh, who allegedly flew drones into North Korea three times since September of last year. Oh, who previously worked in ex-president Yoon Suk-yeol’s office, claims to have conducted these flights. The investigation aims to determine if these drone flights are connected to the ongoing trial of former KDIC commanders related to a failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024. President Lee questioned how a civilian could undertake such actions, especially given the ongoing trial, and expressed concern over the alleged involvement of a state agency. The probe seeks to uncover the extent of KDIC's involvement and the motivations behind the drone flights.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Seoul 40% December 2024 Martial Law Attempt 60% Yoon Suk-yeol ×270% Oh 80% Korea Defence Intelligence Command (KDIC) 85% Lee Jae Myung ×290% North Korea ×395% South Korea ×295%

Keywords

drones 100% north korea 90% south korea 80% military intelligence 70% korea defence intelligence command 60% investigation 60% espionage 50% yoon suk-yeol 40% martial law 40%