In a drastic move, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has ordered the closure of all roads and railways that connect North Korea with South Korea. Furthermore, the North Korean regime has begun construction of strong defensive structures along its border, as reported by the authorities through the official news agency KCNA.
This measure is described by the General Staff of the North Korean People’s Army like an act “self-defensive”with the aim of “stop the war and protect the country’s security”.
Military tension on the Korean Peninsula
This blockage occurs in the middle of a increased tension between the two Koreas, exacerbated by the recent purchases of advanced weaponry by South Korea, including a contract with the United States for 36 AH-64 helicoptersvalued at 3.2 billion euros. From Pyongyang, these acquisitions have been described as “reckless provocation”which contributes to an increasingly delicate regional security situation.
The deployment of strategic assets by the United States on the peninsula has also been denounced by the North Korean regime as an act that “military tension increases”. Recently, North Korea also launched balloons containing garbage towards the south, prompting a response from Seoul, which warned that it will not tolerate provocative actions.
Possible constitutional amendment in North Korea
This tightening of defense policies occurs in a context of possible changes in the North Korean constitution. Although it has not been confirmed by KCNA, the North Korean parliament was scheduled to address in its last session an amendment that would reaffirm South Korea as the “main enemy”.
In January, Kim Jong-un had already proposed revising the constitution to reflect this position, which generated strong statements from the South Korean president. Yoon Suk-yeolwho stated that South Korea would respond firmly to any provocation.
This blockade of roads and railways seems one more step towards a escalation of confrontation in the region, with both Koreas hardening their stances and preparing for any eventuality in a climate of growing distrust.