Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has categorically denied South Korean claims that Pyongyang removed propaganda loudspeakers along their shared border. In a statement published by state media KCNA, she asserted North Korea has “never removed” the speakers and has no intention of doing so, dismissing Seoul’s reports as “unfounded unilateral supposition.”
Kim Yo Jong serves as deputy director of North Korea’s propaganda department and is considered one of the regime’s most influential figures. Her statements carry significant weight in inter-Korean affairs and reflect Pyongyang’s official position on border tensions.
The dispute centers on South Korea’s military announcement earlier this week that it detected North Korea removing some loudspeakers. This came days after Seoul dismantled its own border speakers in June as a goodwill gesture under new President Lee Jae Myung, who campaigned on improving relations. The timing places this diplomatic exchange in mid-August 2025.
The loudspeakers are positioned along the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas. Both nations have historically used these speakers for psychological warfare—South Korea broadcasting K-pop songs and propaganda messages, while North Korea countered with disturbing noises like howling animals, causing distress to border residents.
The denial comes amid heightened tensions following South Korea’s resumption of broadcasts in June 2024 after a six-year pause. Pyongyang considers these broadcasts acts of war and had responded earlier this year by sending trash-filled balloons across the border. Kim Yo Jong explicitly stated North Korea has “no will to improve relations” with Seoul and plans to codify this stance in its constitution.
This rejection undermines Seoul’s recent peace overtures and reveals Pyongyang’s uncompromising position. By publicly refuting South Korea’s claims through high-level channels, North Korea signals its rejection of de-escalation and highlights the fragility of inter-Korean relations despite leadership changes in Seoul.
The immediate impact leaves border communities facing potential resumption of disruptive broadcasts. South Korean military officials maintain their assessment of speaker removal was accurate, cautioning against being “easily swayed” by Pyongyang’s statements. The standoff occurs as North Korea warned of “resolute counteraction” against upcoming US-South Korea military drills.
Looking ahead, North Korea’s constitutional codification of hostility suggests long-term deterioration in relations. The situation increases risks of renewed border provocations, particularly as joint military exercises approach. With Pyongyang ruling out diplomacy, Seoul faces difficult choices between maintaining deterrence and pursuing its reconciliation agenda.