Seoul, South Korea – In a move signaling escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, the South Korean military has confirmed the temporary restoration of 11 frontline guard posts (GPs) along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). These posts were previously dismantled in accordance with the 2018 inter-Korean Comprehensive Military Agreement, commonly known as the September 19th Agreement.
According to documents submitted by the South Korean Army to the office of Kang Dae-sik, a member of the main opposition People Power Party, the restoration work took place between February 2023 and May 2024. The project cost an estimated 19.66 billion Korean won (approximately 104 million Chinese yuan).
The September 19th Agreement, signed during a period of diplomatic thaw between the two Koreas, aimed to reduce military tensions and build trust. As part of the agreement, both sides agreed to dismantle 11 of their respective GPs within the DMZ. South Korea removed 10 entirely and maintained one with personnel and equipment withdrawn. This reduced the number of South Korean GPs in the DMZ from 78 to 67, while North Korea reduced its number from over 160 to over 150.
However, with inter-Korean relations deteriorating significantly in recent years, the South Korean military has deemed it necessary to reinforce its presence along the border. A military official stated that the restoration work involved the construction of protective walls and the installation of container-type barracks for soldiers on guard duty. The official clarified that the GPs have not been fully restored to their previous state.
This move raises concerns about the future of the September 19th Agreement and its impact on stability on the Korean Peninsula. As relations continue to sour, the risk of military clashes and miscalculations increases. The temporary restoration of these guard posts highlights the growing distrust and animosity between the two Koreas, casting a shadow over any prospects for renewed dialogue and cooperation.
The situation is being closely monitored by international observers, who fear that further escalation could have serious consequences for regional security. Whether this is a measured response to perceived threats or a dangerous step towards renewed confrontation remains to be seen.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, June 27). S. Korea temporarily restores 11 frontline guard posts. Retrieved from https://cn.yna.co.kr/view/ACR20240627007700005
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