South Korea has reported signs that North Korea is preparing to destroy northern sections of inter-Korean roads that are no longer in use. The move is seen as part of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s broader effort to cut ties with South Korea, further escalating tensions between the two nations. Kim’s recent push to formalize South Korea as North Korea’s “principal enemy” and remove the goal of peaceful unification signals a shift in the North’s long-standing approach toward the South.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, Lee Sung Joon, stated that North Korea has begun installing screens along the roads and appears to be working behind them, likely preparing for demolitions that could begin as early as Monday. While it remains unclear how much of the roads will be destroyed, the development comes at a time of heightened tensions over North Korea’s accusations that South Korea flew drones into its territory. Pyongyang has warned of retaliatory force if the alleged drone flights continue, while Seoul has refrained from confirming or denying the claims but vowed strong action if its citizens' safety is compromised.

In a threatening statement on Sunday, North Korea’s Defense Ministry ordered artillery and military units near the border to be fully prepared to open fire. The ministry’s spokesperson warned that South Korea could “turn into piles of ashes” if the North retaliates. Such warlike rhetoric is a common tactic for North Korea during periods of heightened animosity, though experts believe that a full-scale attack is unlikely due to the North's military disadvantage compared to the combined forces of South Korea and the U.S.

Observers suggest that the recent tensions could be North Korea’s attempt to reinforce domestic unity and create instability in South Korea. Koo Byoungsam, spokesperson for South Korea’s Unification Ministry, stated that North Korea’s accusations about drone flights seem intended to increase tension and provoke instability in the South. He added that the North cannot achieve its goals through threats and provocations.

North Korea's actions come amid ongoing friction, as the country has already been reinforcing its defenses along the border with South Korea, adding anti-tank barriers and planting mines. These measures, which began earlier this year, are seen as efforts to prevent defections and enhance its military posture.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have reached their highest levels in years, with North Korea continuing missile tests and South Korea conducting joint military drills with the U.S. Analysts believe that North Korea may launch further provocations, including possible weapons tests ahead of next month's U.S. presidential election, in an attempt to gain diplomatic leverage.

Kim Jong Un’s decision earlier this year to amend North Korea's constitution and remove the objective of peaceful unification with the South stunned many experts. By officially designating South Korea as North Korea’s primary enemy, Kim appears to be shifting focus away from unification and seeking direct engagement with the U.S., while attempting to diminish South Korea's influence in regional affairs and reduce its cultural impact on the North.