North Korea has begun to dismantle its loudspeakers that usually broadcast propaganda across the border into South Korea, a move that South Korea's military has confirmed. This development appears to be a response to President Lee Jae Myung's election campaign, which focused on enhancing bilateral relations. Earlier this week, South Korea also took down some of its own speakers, having ceased broadcasts shortly after Lee's inauguration in June.
The propaganda speakers had previously blared out K-pop hits and unsettling noises, causing complaints from border residents about the intrusive noise. South Korea's military noted that while the dismantling is a positive sign, verification of removal across all regions is needed. Past tensions had seen propaganda broadcasts resume in 2024 amidst conflicts such as balloon launches from the North.
The relationship between the two Koreas had soured under former President Yoon Suk Yeol's administration, but with Lee now in office, hopes for improved dialogue are on the rise. Both nations remain technically at war since the Korean War concluded in 1953 without a formal peace agreement.
The propaganda speakers had previously blared out K-pop hits and unsettling noises, causing complaints from border residents about the intrusive noise. South Korea's military noted that while the dismantling is a positive sign, verification of removal across all regions is needed. Past tensions had seen propaganda broadcasts resume in 2024 amidst conflicts such as balloon launches from the North.
The relationship between the two Koreas had soured under former President Yoon Suk Yeol's administration, but with Lee now in office, hopes for improved dialogue are on the rise. Both nations remain technically at war since the Korean War concluded in 1953 without a formal peace agreement.
