After DMZ explosions, UN Command deputy stresses allies’ role in Korean security

Recent landmine explosions that injured three demonstrate why UN Command remains vital to security on the Korean Peninsula, said its deputy commander. Lt. Gen. Scott Winter, deputy commander of the United Nations Command addresses the troops during the United Nations Command award ceremony, Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Oct. 5, 2026. (Alejandro Carrasquel/Stars and Stripes) CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea — Recent landmine explosions that injured three South Korean soldiers demonstrate why United Nations Command remains vital to security on the Korean Peninsula, said its deputy commander. Australian army Lt. Gen. Scott Winter cited the Sept. 21 blasts during an Oct. 5 ceremony recognizing 11 New Zealand Defence Force personnel completing their assignments at Camp Humphreys, roughly 40 miles south of Seoul.

A joint South Korean military and U.N. Command investigation determined that North Korea deliberately planted at least four mines near the Military Demarcation Line, which divides the two Koreas. Two exploded during South Korean military operations on the southern side of the Demilitarized Zone, hospitalizing three soldiers. The remaining mines were cleared Oct. 5. “We need only look at the events of the last couple of weeks” to understand the opportunity for command personnel to serve in “some of the most challenging terrain and operational conditions anywhere in the world,” Winter said. New Zealand soldiers perform a traditional Haka during