North Korea has blown up parts of two major roads connected to the southern part of the peninsula, according to South Korean authorities. The Gyeongui line on the West coast and Donghae line on the East coast, which are significant road and railway links connecting the North and South, were destroyed by explosives. The destruction of these travel routes, although symbolic, does not have a significant practical impact as the two Koreas remain divided by a heavily fortified border.
The South Korean Defense Ministry shared a video showing explosions on the roads on the north side of the military demarcation line. In response, the South Korean military fired artillery and is closely monitoring North Korean military movements. This incident follows North Korea's accusations of South Korea flying propaganda-filled drones over Pyongyang and threats of retaliation.
North Korea's recent actions are in response to what it perceives as provocations from South Korea and the United States. The general staff of the Korean People’s Army announced plans to completely cut off remaining roads and railways connected to the South, citing the need to defend national security.
Since the beginning of the year, tensions between North and South Korea have escalated, with both sides engaging in fiery rhetoric. North Korea's intensified nuclear production efforts and strengthened ties with Russia have raised concerns globally about the direction the isolated nation is taking.
