Defense chief says mine-removal operation a 'decisive' response against N. Korea

What happened: South Korea's defense minister called a mine-clearing operation inside the Demilitarized Zone a "decisive" response to North Korea, after a joint probe found North Korean antipersonnel mines caused a Sept. 21 blast that injured three South Korean soldiers. Key numbers: Sept. 21 blast, three soldiers injured, minefield removed around 12:51 p.m. Monday. Why it matters: Kang rejected claims the military response was too passive and said all responsibility lies with North Korea. Kim Yo-jong dismissed Seoul's findings as fabrication and warned of retaliation.

South Korea's defense minister called a mine-clearing operation inside the Demilitarized Zone a "decisive" response to North Korea, after a joint probe found North Korean antipersonnel mines caused a Sept. 21 blast that injured three South Korean soldiers.

Kang rejected claims the military response was too passive and said all responsibility lies with North Korea. Kim Yo-jong dismissed Seoul's findings as fabrication and warned of retaliation.