North Korea Begins Dismantling Border Propaganda Speakers

Tue Oct 21 2025 02:21:03 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In an unexpected move, North Korea initiates the removal of loudspeakers used for propaganda at the inter-Korean border following South Korean diplomatic gestures.

North Korea’s decision to dismantle its propaganda speakers marks a significant shift in inter-Korean relations, coinciding with a new approach from South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung aimed at fostering better ties between the two nations.

North Korea has commenced the removal of its propaganda loudspeakers along the border, a development confirmed by South Korea's military. This action appears to respond positively to the diplomatic overtures from South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, who has focused on enhancing inter-Korean relations since taking office.

Earlier this week, South Korea also began dismantling certain loudspeakers, having halted broadcasts along the demilitarized zone since President Lee assumed office in June. This cessation followed an earlier period of heightened tensions, which included an increase in North Korean provocations, such as sending balloons filled with trash across the border.

A South Korean military statement indicated that troops from the North were identified dismantling speakers at various locations along the frontier starting Saturday. While it has yet to be confirmed if all speakers have been removed, authorities will continue monitoring the situation closely.

The broadcasts, which began in June 2024 after a six-year hiatus, previously featured a mix of South Korean pop songs and news bulletins, whereas the North's output commonly included eerie sounds, such as howling animals. Residents near the border had expressed dissatisfaction over the noise pollution generated by these broadcasts, with claims that they could be heard up to 15 miles into South Korea at night.

Human rights organizations previously criticized the South for suspending its broadcasts but have voiced earlier concerns about the impact of such propaganda on the North Korean populace. The vindictive climate surrounding inter-Korean relations worsened under former President Yoon Suk Yeol, whose hawkish approach led to his impeachment for declaring martial law in response to perceived threats from anti-state forces and sympathizers of North Korea.

Despite the backdrop of unresolved tensions since the Korean War concluded in 1953 without a lasting peace treaty, both nations remain technically at war. This latest development signals a potential thaw in relations, aimed at addressing long-standing grievances and fostering dialogue.