• South Korea has dismantled around 20 loudspeakers along its border with North Korea.
• The removal is part of President Lee Jae-myung's strategy to improve inter-Korean relations.
• North Korea has not shown signs of dismantling its own loudspeakers in response.
• The decision follows a halt in hostile broadcasts from both sides that began in June.

South Korea's military announced on August 6 that it has completed the removal of propaganda loudspeakers installed along the border with North Korea, a significant step aimed at reducing inter-Korean tensions. The dismantling process began on August 4 and concluded with approximately 20 loudspeakers being disassembled as of Tuesday afternoon, according to military officials. This strategy aligns with President Lee Jae-myung's broader efforts to improve relations with the North following a period of escalated hostility, especially after North Korea's balloon launches last year, which prompted South Korea to resume its propaganda broadcasts for the first time in six years, as reported by Channel News Asia, AA, and South China Morning Post.

The military described the removal of the loudspeakers as "a practical measure" for easing inter-Korean tensions while maintaining military readiness. The South Korean Defense Ministry stressed that these actions are part of efforts to foster peace and restore dialogue with the North. However, despite these overtures, North Korea's response has been tepid, especially as reflected in statements from Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who dismissed Seoul’s attempts at reconciliation as "sentimental words," suggesting Pyongyang has no interest in dialogue, according to AA and India Times.

The speakers played a significant role in the fraught messaging between the two Koreas over the years, often featuring propaganda music and messages designed to undermine North Korean leadership. During Lee's term, the South has reversed its hardline stance from previous administrations, halting broadcasts and urging civic groups to cease anti-regime activities. The dismantling of these loudspeakers is seen as a move to create a "friendly atmosphere," promoting potential future talks, as noted by experts who are cautiously optimistic about this diplomatic shift, per reports from Le Monde and LA Times.

As the situation evolves, the response from Pyongyang regarding its own loudspeakers remains uncertain, with South Korea reporting an absence of any dismantling on their side. The failure of North Korea to reciprocate indicates persistent tension, even as South Korea aims for renewed diplomatic engagement. North Korea’s long-standing suspicions towards South Korea, fueled by recent historical grievances and military exercises, pose significant barriers to reconciliation, which will require sustained effort and trust-building measures on both sides, according to information from AA and South China Morning Post.