This picture taken on May 17, 2022 and released from the DPRK's official Korean Central News Agency on May 18 shows a doctor promoting pandemic control measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Pyongyang. (STR / KCNA VIA KNS / AFP)
SEOUL - The Republic of Korea's unification ministry handling inter-Korean affairs expressed regret after Democratic People’s Republic of Korea top leader Kim Jong-un's sister blamed leaflets from the ROK for causing the COVID-19 outbreak in the country.
"We express strong regrets over North Korea repeatedly making groundless claims over the route of the COVID and making very disrespectful and threatening remarks," the ministry said in a statement. The DPRK is also referred to as North Korea.
DPRK leader Kim declared victory in the battle against the novel coronavirus, ordering a lifting of maximum anti-pandemic measures imposed in May, state media KCNA said on Thursday.
ALSO READ: DPRK declares victory in battle against COVID-19