South Korea removes loudspeakers at North Korea border to ease tensions
South Korea has begun the process of removing loudspeakers positioned at its border with North Korea. The country’s defense ministry shared the news Monday, Aug. 4.
Past administrations used the loudspeakers to blast music and news into North Korea. They were placed along the demilitarized zone (DMZ), where dictator Kim Jong Un heavily restricts outside information.
‘Practical’ steps to ease tensions
The effort is seen as a “practical” step to ease tensions between the nations, according to the South Korean military. Seoul’s move comes weeks after the swearing-in of a new president, Lee Jae Myung. Lee has pledged to improve relations with Pyongyang.
Kim had previously demanded that the loudspeakers be dismantled and called them “psychologically detrimental” to citizens in the area. But so far, North Korea appears unmoved by Seoul’s gesture.
North Korea’s response
“We reiterate our official position that we have no interest in any policies established or proposals made in Seoul, and that we have no intention of meeting with South Korea or discussing any issues with it,” Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korea’s leader said in a statement as reported by state-run media.
She added, “The relationship between the two countries has already completely and irreversibly moved beyond the time frame of the concept of compatriotism.”
The South Korean military emphasized that the move will not impact its preparedness in the face of potential threats from North Korea.
Demilitarized Zone
The DMZ has been a source of tension between North Korea and South Korea. Last year, North Korea launched thousands of trash-and excrement-filled balloons across the border. As Straight Arrow News reported, Seoul sent out text alerts and warned residents to stay inside as a safety measure.
Use of loudspeakers
Following such provocations, South Korea periodically blasted K-Pop songs and pro-Seoul messages through the loudspeakers. They used the tactic to agitate the North and sway defectors.
Hostilities have continued as the North expands its nuclear testing and South Korea conducts joint military exercises with the United States.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
