North Korea to Restart Propaganda Loudspeakers as Ties Sour with South

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North Korea's Propaganda Loudspeaker Policy":"North Korea has a long history of using propaganda loudspeakers to broadcast propaganda messages across the border with South Korea. In recent years, the North has been known to play haunting bestial howls, while the South has opted for K-pop music and news criticizing Pyongyang. The joint chiefs of staff observed routine maintenance of the North's loudspeakers before Kim Yo-jong's statements.","

Rising Tensions Between North and South Korea":"Tensions have risen since September, when a landmine blast injured three South Korean soldiers. North Korea has continued to fortify its side of the border, laying mines, strung barbed wire, and erecting anti-tank barriers. Kim Yo-jong inspected several fortification points along the border with Pak Jong-chon, a marshal and adviser to Pyongyang's defense ministry.","

Diplomatic Response":"South Korean President Lee Jae Myung suspended broadcasts from the southern side just days into his presidency in June 2025 to ease tensions with Pyongyang. The military dismantled the speakers that August. If North Korea goes ahead with the loudspeaker threat, a proportional measure would be necessary, according to a defence ministry spokesperson in Seoul."}