SEOUL – The North Korean regime, led by Kim Jong-un, has announced a further escalation of its country’s isolation. The state news agency KCNA reported that all road and rail connections to the southern neighbor South Korea are to be cut. This measure is presented as part of a series of actions aimed at protecting national security and preventing war.

The announcement follows a series of reports on the deployment of tens of thousands of landmines along the border with South Korea in recent months. The North Korean General Staff declared that the areas on the North Korean side are to be additionally fortified with “strong defense structures.” These steps are to be implemented immediately and are, according to official statements, a response to unspecified security threats.

Experts view the interruption of traffic connections and the military fortification of the border as predominantly symbolic gestures since direct exchange between North and South Korea has already been curtailed for years due to the strict military security of the border. Nevertheless, this action could further exacerbate tensions on the Korean Peninsula and alarm the international community.

The South Korean government has not yet officially responded to the announcement, but it is expected that they will view the measures as a provocation and an unnecessary escalation of the situation. The United States and other allies have expressed their concern over North Korea’s increasing isolation and the potential impacts on regional stability.

North Korea’s decision to sever the few remaining ties with its southern neighbor could have humanitarian consequences as well. Families that were separated by the division of Korea now face even greater obstacles to the rare and difficult contact. (zai)