SEOUL – North Korean state media reported on October 16 that approximately 1.4 million young people, including students and youth league officials, joined or re-enlisted in the Korean People’s Army this week. The enlistment surge, according to the KCNA report, reflects their determination to engage in a “sacred war of destroying the enemy with the arms of the revolution.”
This claim of mass enlistment comes at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea accusing South Korea of provocative acts, including sending drones over Pyongyang. North Korea also blew up sections of inter-Korean roads and rail lines along the heavily fortified border on October 15, prompting South Korea to respond with warning shots.
The recent military developments and threats have escalated conflict between the two Koreas. Pyongyang has also taken issue with balloon launches from South Korea, claiming they are a response to similar actions by anti-regime activists in the South.
“If a war breaks out, the ROK (Republic of Korea) will be wiped off the map. As it wants a war, we are willing to put an end to its existence,” KCNA stated, reflecting the North’s aggressive stance toward its southern neighbor.
North Korea has made similar claims of mass enlistment in previous years, particularly in response to perceived threats from the United States and South Korea. The current enlistment claim further signals Pyongyang’s readiness to militarily engage amid growing regional tensions.