North Korea has officially declared South Korea as a “hostile state” for the first time in its constitution, as confirmed by state media reports. The announcement came after North Korea’s parliament convened for two days to amend the constitution under the leadership of Kim Jong-un. Although state media did not initially confirm the declaration of Seoul as an enemy state, Pyongyang proceeded to destroy road and rail links connecting the two countries.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that the demolition of these links was deemed necessary under the DPRK constitution, which identifies the ROK as a hostile state. This action was described as part of a gradual process to completely separate the two Koreas. Kim Jong-un had previously announced the abandonment of the idea of peaceful unification, labelling South Korea as a consistent enemy.
The decision to amend the constitution symbolises a departure from the notion of shared statehood between the two Koreas and signifies a shift from previous efforts for a peaceful unification on North Korea’s terms. The destruction of the road and rail links, although symbolic, represented the end of inter-Korean reconciliation efforts that were no longer in use.
The move by North Korea to redefine South Korea as a hostile state has drawn condemnation from South Korea’s Unification Ministry. It was described as an act against unification and against national interests. South Korea reaffirmed its commitment to responding sternly to any provocations from North Korea, while advocating for a peaceful Korean unification based on principles of freedom and democracy.
Tensions between the two Koreas have been escalating, with North Korea gradually rolling back peace agreements, withdrawing from treaties, and dismantling infrastructure that facilitated connections with South Korea. North Korea has criticised South Korea for its close relationship with the US and expressed concerns over military exercises that involved US warships near Korean waters while strengthening ties with Russia.
The recent actions by North Korea, including the installation of mines and deployment of soldiers along the demilitarised zone, indicate a significant militarisation of the border area. North Korea has also accused South Korea of flying drones to distribute propaganda near Pyongyang, further heightening tensions on the Korean peninsula. These developments signal a challenging period for inter-Korean relations and regional stability.