The South Korean Ministry of National Defense said on August 4 that the country has begun dismantling loudspeakers that broadcast anti-North Korean messages along the border.
This move was carried out under the direction of President Lee Jae Myung, with the goal of reducing tensions and creating a favorable environment for dialogue between the two sides.
Shortly after taking office in June, Lee Jae Myung's administration turned off its broadcasting system to criticize the Pyongyang government. This is considered a step to show goodwill to connect contacts that have been stalled for many years.
However, North Korea has recently rejected a dialogue offer, saying it does not want to discuss with South Korea. Relations between the two regions remain tense as both countries are still in a state of conflict in theory, as the war of 1950-1953 only ended with a ceasefire.
The Korean Ministry of National Defense stressed that removing loudspeakers for propaganda is a "practical measure to contribute to reducing tensions between the two sides".
Observers say Seoul's move could be a soft diplomatic signal, although it is uncertain to change Pyongyang's tough stance.
