Seoul, September 25, 2024 — According to a South Korean military source, North Korea has recently laid mines along the southern boundary of the Kaesong Industrial Zone and covered them with soil, but has not installed any barriers such as a fence. This development has raised concerns among South Korean military officials regarding potential security threats and the risk of accidental detonations.
The source provided to Yonhap News Agency stated, In the early part of this year, North Korea laid mines along the southern boundary of the Kaesong Industrial Zone and subsequently covered them with soil. However, no barriers such as fences were installed to prevent unauthorized access.
This move comes amid a tense period in the inter-Korean relations. In December last year, North Korea declared its relationship with South Korea as that of two hostile states, which led to the severing of all communication channels in border regions. Since then, North Korea has taken several steps to further isolate itself, including the laying of landmines along the Gyeongui and Donghae railways in January, the removal of streetlights along these roads in April, and the dismantling of streetlights on the railways in June and July.
Satellite imagery captured by the satellite imaging company Planet Labs in the previous month shows that North Korea has constructed 3 to 4 barriers along the Gyeongui Line, with each barrier spaced 15 meters apart. However, South Korean military analysts believe that these barriers are not intended as security barriers. Instead, North Korean military has set up what they believe to be anti-tank barriers in several areas near the Military Demarcation Line (MDL).
These actions by North Korea have heightened tensions in the region. The South Korean military has been closely monitoring these developments and has taken steps to enhance security measures in the area. The latest developments have also drawn attention from international media outlets such as Voice of America (VOA).
According to VOA, the South Korean military has been utilizing remote sensing satellite data to track North Korean activities in the border region. The information gathered from these sources is crucial for South Korea to understand North Korea’s intentions and to prepare for any potential threats.
The Kaesong Industrial Zone, which was once a symbol of inter-Korean cooperation, has been under scrutiny due to these recent actions. The South Korean government has been working to ensure the safety of the region and to maintain communication with North Korea where possible. However, given the current hostile environment, these efforts are challenging.
In conclusion, North Korea’s actions in Kaesong Industrial Zone highlight the ongoing tension between the two Koreas. The lack of communication and the deployment of landmines without proper barriers underscore the complexity of the situation and the need for continued dialogue and cooperation to de-escalate tensions.
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