South Korea Dismantles Loudspeakers on Border with North

South Korea has initiated the removal of loudspeakers along its border with North Korea, marking a symbolic step toward de-escalating inter-Korean tensions.

The dismantling began on Monday, according to the Ministry of National Defense in Seoul.

The loudspeakers, previously used to broadcast anti-regime propaganda and pop music across the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), have long been a source of friction between the two countries.

The South Korean government, under newly inaugurated President Lee Jae-myung, sees the measure as a gesture of goodwill aimed at reducing hostilities and opening the door to renewed dialogue with Pyongyang.

Lee Kyung-ho, spokesperson for the Defense Ministry, confirmed the dismantling operation and said it is expected to be completed by the end of the week. He stressed that the military's readiness remains uncompromised despite the move.

This decision follows President Lee’s earlier order to suspend broadcasts shortly after taking office in June, in an effort to rebuild trust following the political turbulence that led to his predecessor’s impeachment. In a reciprocal gesture, North Korea halted its own loudspeaker operations the following day.

Despite this mutual step, Pyongyang has since rejected further diplomatic overtures. Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, dismissed Seoul's initiative as naïve, warning that emotional rhetoric cannot undo years of mistrust.