South Korea Removes Propaganda Speakers from North Korean Border

South Korea's Defense Ministry confirmed the start of operations to remove loudspeakers broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda from the northern border. This move is described as a "practical measure" to de-escalate tensions.

The decision follows the cessation of broadcasts in June, a goodwill gesture by the new liberal government of President Lee Jae Myung, who seeks rapprochement with Pyongyang.

According to ministry spokesman Lee Kyung-ho, there was no prior consultation with North Korea before the removal of the speakers. North Korea has not officially commented.

The speakers were reactivated last year by the conservative government of Yoon Suk-yeol in response to psychological warfare actions by Pyongyang.

Kim Yo Jong, sister of Kim Jong Un, rejected Lee's moves, arguing that South Korea remains hostile due to its alliance with the United States. Pyongyang appears to be focused on strengthening relations with Moscow amid the war in Ukraine.