South Korea has begun removing loudspeakers along its heavily fortified border that were used to broadcast anti-North Korean propaganda, the Ministry of National Defense announced Monday, marking a significant step by President Lee Jae Myung’s administration to reduce military tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
The dismantling operation, which started Monday morning, follows the government’s earlier decision in June to halt the broadcasts, which had for years been a source of irritation for Pyongyang. The loudspeakers, which played a mix of news, criticisms of the North Korean regime, and South Korean pop music, were part of a long-running psychological warfare tactic.
“This is a practical measure to help ease tensions between the South and the North,” the ministry said in a statement, emphasizing the government’s intent to create a more conducive environment for renewed inter-Korean dialogue.
President Lee, who took office in June, has prioritized resuming talks with North Korea amid years of strained relations and stalled diplomacy. However, Pyongyang has so far dismissed Seoul’s overtures, declaring it has “no interest” in engaging with the South.
The two Koreas remain technically at war since the 1950–53 Korean War ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty. Tensions have escalated in recent years over military drills, missile tests, and cross-border provocations.
While South Korea’s latest move signals a shift in tone, analysts caution that North Korea’s continued resistance to dialogue may limit the impact of Seoul’s conciliatory efforts.
Written By Rodney Mbua
