SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has described South Korea as a “foreign country and a seemingly hostile state,” cautioning against any violation of North Korea’s sovereignty with the use of actual force, as reported by state media. The statement comes amid heightened tensions following Pyongyang’s recent destruction of roads and railways linking the two Koreas, which were once considered symbols of potential reconciliation.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Kim Jong Un articulated these views during an inspection of the Korean People’s Army’s 2nd Corps headquarters. This inspection follows the dismantling of infrastructure that had been emblematic of inter-Korean cooperation. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim emphasized the need for the North Korean military to recognize the stark reality of South Korea as a foreign and hostile entity.

It is anticipated that North Korea has recently amended its constitution to officially classify South Korea as a hostile state, in line wi
th Kim’s directive. This move signifies a shift from viewing Seoul as a potential partner for reconciliation to an adversary. The KCNA report also highlighted that the North is prepared to use actual force without reservation should South Korea violate its sovereignty.

Kim stated that the recent closure of roads and railways symbolizes not only a physical severance but also the termination of the “evil relationship” with Seoul. He noted that this action marks the end of what he termed as the unreasonable idea of reunification.

During his visit, Kim reiterated the necessity of enhancing North Korea’s military capabilities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining constant combat readiness and strengthening nuclear deterrence. He underscored the impact of the evolving nature of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and their joint military exercises, describing them as aggressive threats to North Korea’s security.