North Korea has reportedly constructed multiple barriers along the Gyeongui Line road, which connects the two Koreas, heightening the possibility that it may develop the Kaesong Industrial Complex independently, according to a report by Voice of America (VOA) today.
VOA noted that North Korea erected large barriers along the Gyeongui Line road leading from Paju, South Korea, to the Kaesong Industrial Complex around February. The barriers, which number between three and four and are placed about 15 meters (approximately 50 feet) apart, completely obstruct the road, which is roughly 20 meters (approximately 65 feet) wide.
Established in 2004 to promote inter-Korean exchanges, the Gyeongui Line road was the only route for South Korean business officials commuting to the Kaesong Industrial Complex. However, it has remained unused since the complex’s closure in 2016 and the demolition of the inter-Korean liaison office in 2020.
Since then, South Korean military surveillance has documented North Korea planting landmines along the Gyeongui Line road in January and dismantling dozens of streetlights in April.
The construction of these barriers appears to be a strategic move by North Korea to isolate the Kaesong Industrial Complex fully.
North Korea recently renovated approximately 21 crosswalks within the Kaesong Industrial Complex and began constructing new buildings on the South Korean company Dongwon F&B site on the 11th. These actions suggest that North Korea is preparing to operate the complex independently.
