Propaganda loudspeakers aimed at South Korea are set to restart within days, according to Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. This announcement comes amid escalating tensions between the two countries.
Background
The statement was reported by the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, following Kim Yo-jong's earlier remarks that the loudspeakers would be operational along the entire border starting in October. Historically, both North and South Korea have utilized large loudspeakers to disseminate propaganda across the border. The North has been known to broadcast unsettling animal sounds, while the South has favored K-pop music and news critical of Pyongyang.
If the broadcasts resume, it will mark the first loudspeaker exchange in 16 months. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung halted broadcasts from the southern side shortly after taking office in June 2025, aiming to ease tensions with the North. The military dismantled the speakers that August.
Recent Developments
During a briefing on Thursday, a spokesperson from the South Korean defense ministry indicated that if North Korea proceeded with its plans, there would need to be a proportional response, although no specific decisions had been made yet. The joint chiefs of staff noted that routine maintenance of the North's loudspeakers had been observed prior to Kim Yo-jong's statements.
