North Korea Permanently Closes Border with South Korea

North Korea has announced a significant military decision to permanently close and seal off its southern border with South Korea, citing escalating tensions and formalizing the South's designation as an enemy state. The military's statement includes plans to cut off all roads and railways that could facilitate travel between the two nations, with a focus on reinforcing defenses along the border. This action reflects ongoing deterioration in inter-Korean relations, with Pyongyang previously shutting down agencies focused on reunification. Although there was speculation about nullifying a significant 1991 inter-Korean agreement, state media did not confirm this during recent announcements. The North has communicated with U.S. forces to prevent any accidental conflicts during this fortification process, highlighting the already high military tensions in the region. Analysts view this move as a continuation of North Korea's long-standing strategy to isolate South Korea, as evidenced by recent actions such as landmine placements and the demolition of transportation links.