South Korea has protested to China and Russia after their military planes entered its air defence identification zone (Kadiz). On Tuesday, seven Russian and two Chinese aircraft briefly flew into this zone near disputed areas like Ulleung Island, Dokdo, and Ieodo. Seoul quickly sent fighter jets "to take tactical measures in preparation for any emergencies," but said the planes did not cross into South Korea’s sovereign airspace. A South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff official said the Russian planes entered near Ulleung and Dokdo, while Chinese planes flew near Ieodo. The aircraft later regrouped near Japan's Tsushima Island. South Korea’s defence ministry warned, "Our military will actively respond to aircraft activities from neighbouring countries in the Kadiz in compliance with international law." China confirmed the joint patrol, calling it part of an "annual cooperation plan" with Russia to "address regional challenges and maintain regional peace and stability." Russia, however, does not recognize South Korea’s Kadiz, calling it "unilaterally" established and non-binding. Both Japan and South Korea claim Dokdo, while Ieodo is disputed between China and South Korea. China and Russia have repeatedly entered South Korea's air defence zone without notice since 2019, often during joint exercises.