[Yang Nak-gyu's Defence photo] North GP Seen with Thermal Imaging Equipment... "Armed"

West Sea Coastal Artillery Opening "From Single Digit to Double Digits"

North Korea has begun measures to restore frontline guard posts (GPs).

According to photos taken by surveillance equipment from military authorities, North Korean troops have redeployed personnel and equipment to GPs within the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that were dismantled under the September 19 military agreement, and are installing observation posts. The photos released by the military show ▲ North Korean soldiers installing observation posts ▲ positioning what is presumed to be recoilless rifles at the fortifications ▲ and personnel standing night guard duty.

A military official stated, "There used to be guard posts (observation posts) before the GPs were destroyed, and it is presumed they are rebuilding those," adding, "They are making white wooden structures and painting them with camouflage patterns." Regarding the installation of observation posts, the official said, "Since the 24th, restoration of GP-related facilities has been observed," and "Observation posts are essential guard facilities, so all 11 locations are expected to be rebuilt. The surrounding guard positions will be the same."

Regarding other North Korean military activities besides GP restoration, the official noted, "The opening of coastal artillery has increased significantly," explaining, "Previously, there were about two guns per site on average, but now the number has increased considerably." A Ministry of National Defense official further explained about the opening of West Sea coastal artillery, saying, "The number has increased several dozen times from single digits to double digits per site." The Ministry of National Defense released a statement saying, "Since November 24, North Korea has been carrying out restoration measures on some military actions under the September 19 military agreement," reporting that personnel have been deployed to 11 destroyed and withdrawn GPs, temporary posts have been installed, heavy weapons have been brought in, and the number of open coastal artillery gun ports in the West Sea has increased.