North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, has firmly rejected South Korea's assertions that the North has dismantled its propaganda loudspeakers near the border, highlighting ongoing tensions between the two nations.
North Korea Staunchly Denies Claims of Propaganda Speaker Removals at Border
North Korea Staunchly Denies Claims of Propaganda Speaker Removals at Border
North Korea maintains its stance on propaganda loudspeakers, dismissing South Korea's claims of their removal as unfounded.
North Korea has categorically denied claims made by South Korea regarding the removal of propaganda loudspeakers that have long characterized the tense inter-Korean border. Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a high-ranking official, responded sharply to the assertions, emphasizing that North Korea "has never removed" the loudspeakers and has "no intention of removing them." This statement, disseminated through state-run media KCNA, reflects the regime's unwavering stance towards its southern neighbor, stating, "We have clarified on several occasions that we have no will to improve relations with South Korea," a sentiment she promises will be enshrined in their constitution.
South Korea's military had reported earlier this week that some of North Korea's propaganda loudspeakers had been taken down, coincidentally following South Korea's own dismantling efforts. The dynamic of loudspeaker operation has become a contentious issue, as each side employs propaganda messages and cultural music—South Korea playing popular K-pop tunes while North Korea emits eerie sounds, sometimes including howling animals. Complaints have surfaced from South Korean residents living near the border, citing disturbances from the two sides’ broadcasts, often occurring late at night.
Pyongyang has historically viewed South Korea's broadcasting initiatives as provocations, with leaders threatening to destroy the loudspeakers in past instances. Tensions escalated when South Korea resumed its broadcasts along the demilitarized zone in June 2024 after a prolonged six-year hiatus, marking a return to a more hardline approach under the administration of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. This occurred shortly after North Korea launched balloon campaigns filled with debris directed at the South, underscoring heightened tensions.
However, a shift seemed to occur with the election of President Lee Jae Myung, who advocated for improved ties between the two Koreas. His administration's response included a cessation of South Korea's broadcasts in June, which military officials attributed to efforts aimed at "restoring trust" and fostering peace on the Korean Peninsula. Nevertheless, relations between North and South Korea continue to remain fraught, with North Korea recently issuing warnings of "resolute counteraction" in response to upcoming joint military exercises involving South Korea and the United States.
