Three South Korean military officers were injured in an explosion that occurred during an operation in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating South and North Korea.

According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), the blast occurred in the western section of the DMZ, south of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), while military personnel were carrying out a search operation in the area.

Three officers were injured in the explosion. Two of the injured soldiers were evacuated from the scene by emergency helicopter, while the third was transported for medical treatment, according to military officials.

Mine explosion suspected

The exact cause of the blast has not yet been determined. South Korean authorities said the incident may have been caused by a land mine or another explosive device left in the area.

The military has not confirmed whether the explosion was caused by a North Korean-made mine, a South Korean mine or another type of explosive. An investigation into the incident is underway.

DMZ remains one of the world's most heavily militarized areas

The DMZ, created after the 1950-1953 Korean War, remains one of the most heavily fortified border areas in the world. The 248-kilometre-long buffer zone contains a large number of mines and military installations from decades of confrontation between the two Koreas.

Tensions along the border have increased in recent years, with both sides strengthening military measures and carrying out activities near the demarcation line.(ILKHA)