National Intelligence Service (NIS) reported there have been 11 separate incidents involving 
nationals photographing military bases and other sensitive facilities without authorization since June last year.
“Since June 2024, when a Chinese national used a drone to photograph an aircraft carrier docked at the Republic of Korea Navy’s Command in Busan, 10 more incidents have taken place.”
"Targets included military bases, airports, ports and other critical infrastructure, such as the NIS headquarters."
Most of the individuals involved were short-term visitors to Korea, including tourists and international students. Some were reportedly minors, including high school students.
"While those caught claimed the photos were intended as travel souvenirs, the NIS assessed that their actions — such as using high-resolution cameras or radios just outside military zone boundaries — suggest deliberate attempts to circumvent Korean law.”
The agency believes the incidents to be part of low-intensity intelligence activities aimed at gathering information on key US and Korean defense capabilities. It warns the activities could also be intended to deplete the country's counterespionage resources and weaken public vigilance.
"We are preparing response protocols and working to improve information-sharing among counterintelligence agencies. We also plan to gather expert input to address legal gaps in the Military Bases and Installations Protection Act."
Furthermore, the NIS stressed the need to revise the National Security Act to allow the prosecution of not only espionage activities related to North Korea but also of foreign individuals or entities seeking to obtain or leak sensitive information related to South Korea’s national security or economy.
koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-04-3