South Korea has begun dismantling loudspeakers used for decades to broadcast messages across the demilitarized zone, signaling a push to lower tensions with North Korea while maintaining military readiness, the defense ministry said Monday.

“This is a practical measure aimed at easing tensions between South and North Korea, without compromising our military readiness,” the Ministry of National Defense told NK News, adding that the work is expected to be completed within a few days.

While Yonhap reported that there are over 20 loudspeakers directed at North Korea, the ministry said it could not confirm the exact number.

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