North Korea has officially confirmed that its revised constitution now defines South Korea as a 'hostile state,' marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two countries. This declaration comes shortly after North Korea demolished parts of the inter-Korean road and rail links, severing a key connection between the two nations.
The Korean Central News Agency announced that the demolition was in line with the revised constitution, which identifies South Korea as an enemy state. The move has been condemned by South Korea's Unification Ministry as an anti-unification and anti-national act.
North Korea's recent constitutional changes, initiated by leader Kim Jong Un, aim to designate South Korea as its main enemy, abandoning the goal of peaceful Korean unification. The revised constitution also emphasizes North Korea's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Experts suggest that Kim's decision to rewrite the constitution reflects a desire to resist South Korean influence, strengthen his family's rule, and potentially use nuclear weapons against South Korea. The move signifies a departure from previous efforts towards peaceful unification and could impact future diplomatic relations.
In a separate development, North Korea destroyed sections of road and rail links at the inter-Korean border, a symbolic gesture of escalating tensions. The border closure and construction of defense structures indicate a further deterioration in inter-Korean relations.
While North Korea's military capabilities are outmatched by the U.S. and South Korea, the risk of border clashes remains high due to recent provocations. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, particularly in light of potential territorial disputes in the western sea boundary.
Despite the heightened tensions, experts advise against overreaction and emphasize the need for cautious diplomacy to prevent miscalculations and further escalation.
