DPRK to strengthen border with South Korea

9 October, 2024 Demilitarized zone between North and South Korea. Photo credits: ABC The DPRK will block the border with South Korea and build a new defense line amid growing confrontation in the region.

ABC reported on this. Despite such statements, the seriousness of North Korea's intentions is not yet clear, as any crossing of the demilitarized zone at any part of the border is prohibited. Despite this, the North Korean armed forces will completely block roads and railways, as well as strengthen the relevant areas with powerful defensive fortifications.

An outpost near the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea.

Photo credits: Ministry of National Defense of South Korea

According to the DPRK, these steps are aimed at avoiding a war that could be the last for both South Korea and all its allies in the Indo-Pacific region. Previously, South Korean officials stated that the DPRK has already installed anti-tank barriers and fortified roads on its side of the border since April, likely in an effort to strengthen its security on the front line and prevent its soldiers and citizens from fleeing to South Korea. Despite the warming of relations in 2016-2019, which allowed the countries to weaken the border and disarm some garrisons along the state border, the situation is now quite different.

First and foremost, tensions are related to the DPRK's ballistic and cruise missile tests. For its part, North Korean officials say that joint exercises with the United States and the South's latest missile system developments are adding fuel to the fire.

Hyunmoo-V launcher (behind). Source: ??

Mason

North Korea's nuclear weapons development and production program, which, according to official rhetoric, is aimed at the South, plays an important role. Militarnyi previously reported that, according to Reuters, North Korea may be able to produce 90 nuclear warheads and equip its own ballistic missiles with them. According to Reuters, North Korea has produced about 50 nuclear warheads to date and plans to increase their number to 90.

In addition, the North Korean news agency recently reported that leader Kim Jong-un visited a uranium enrichment plant.