South Korea has begun removing loudspeakers used for propaganda broadcasts along its border with North Korea, the Ministry of National Defense confirmed on Monday, marking the latest step in a series of efforts aimed at reducing inter-Korean tensions.
The fixed loudspeakers, which have been used intermittently over the years to transmit news, music, and pro-democracy messages into North Korean territory, are located along the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). About 20 of these installations are believed to be in operation.
In a statement, the South Korean defense ministry said the removal was “a practical measure that can help ease inter-Korean tensions without affecting the military’s readiness posture.”
The move comes in line with President Lee Jae Myung’s June directive to halt the use of psychological warfare tools at the border. The president had called for the suspension of the loudspeaker broadcasts as a gesture aimed at rebuilding trust and reducing hostility between the two Koreas.
Although the loudspeakers have been silent in recent weeks, their presence along the border has long been a source of irritation for Pyongyang, which has condemned the broadcasts as provocative acts. The broadcasts typically included South Korean news, K-pop music, and criticism of the North Korean regime — content intended to demoralize North Korean troops and civilians within earshot.
The dismantling of the speakers is viewed as a confidence-building measure that could open the door for further dialogue, though no formal inter-Korean talks have been scheduled.
The two Koreas remain technically at war, with no peace treaty signed since the 1953 armistice that ended active fighting in the Korean War. Relations between the North and South have fluctuated over the decades, swinging from diplomatic summits to military standoffs.
Tensions have been particularly high in recent months following a series of North Korean missile tests and a cyberattack attributed to Pyongyang. However, South Korean officials say they hope that removing the loudspeakers will be seen as a good-faith gesture toward de-escalation.
Despite the move, Seoul has reiterated that the South Korean military remains fully prepared and vigilant. “This action does not compromise our security posture,” the defense ministry emphasized, adding that deterrence remains a top priority.
It remains to be seen whether North Korea will respond in kind or engage in renewed diplomatic efforts.
