Recent satellite images obtained by Human Rights Watch depict a significant increase in security measures along the border between North Korea and China.
It highlights a tightening of control by North Korean authorities during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The images, spanning from 2019 to 2023 and covering approximately a quarter of the northern border, reveal the construction of 482km of new fencing and the enhancement of another 260km of existing fencing.
This infrastructure development is coupled with the establishment of new guard posts and buffer zones, aimed at restricting cross-border movement and trade.
Source: Human Rights Watch
According to HRW, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has intensified border security measures in recent years, coinciding with the onset of the pandemic.
Although the border was reopened briefly to facilitate trade with China, the report underscores a broader pattern of repressive policies by the North Korean regime.
The HRW report, titled “A Sense of Terror Stronger than a Bullet: The Closing of North Korea 2018-2023,” highlights the “overbroad, excessive, and unnecessary measures during the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Guard posts
These measures include a notable increase in border security facilities, with the number of guard posts rising from 38 to over 6,500.
Lina Yoon, senior Korea researcher at HRW, emphasized the detrimental impact of these policies on the North Korean population, urging Kim Jong Un to reconsider the restrictive measures.
Yoon called for the reopening of borders for trade, relaxation of internal travel restrictions, and the provision of monitored international emergency assistance.
The intensified border controls have disrupted informal trade routes, hindering the flow of essential goods such as rice and wheat into North Korea.
This has exacerbated food shortages and increased the vulnerability of North Korean families, particularly those reliant on remittances from relatives abroad.
Ahron Young is an award winning journalist who has covered major news events around the world. Ahron is the Managing Editor and Founder of TICKER NEWS.
In a groundbreaking development, Intel and AMD—two of the biggest names in the tech industry—are teaming up to shape the future of x86 chip technology.
The tech giants have established a joint advisory group to influence the design of chips that power a wide range of devices, from personal computers to large-scale servers. This collaboration marks a significant shift in the industry, as Intel and AMD, traditionally fierce rivals, work together to set new standards for chip innovation.
The aim of this partnership is clear: to stay ahead of rapid changes in the tech world and drive the future of computing. Industry experts predict that this joint effort could lead to significant advancements, with the potential to reshape the landscape of processor technology. The implications for everything from computing performance to energy efficiency could be vast.
Pentagon sends THAAD system and 100 U.S. troops amid growing regional tensions
The United States has announced the deployment of its advanced THAAD missile defense system to Israel, along with 100 U.S. troops to operate it. This move is seen as a significant step in strengthening Israel’s defense capabilities amid rising security concerns in the Middle East.
The Pentagon confirmed that the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system is fully operational in Israel, enhancing the nation’s ability to intercept and neutralise incoming missile threats.
This deployment comes at a time when regional conflicts and tensions, particularly involving Iran, are intensifying.
How it’s designed
The THAAD system is designed to complement Israel’s existing missile defense systems, such as the Iron Dome, by providing an additional layer of protection against long-range missile threats.
The U.S. has a long-standing defense relationship with Israel, and this latest move signals deeper military cooperation between the two nations.
With this deployment, the U.S. sends a strong message to regional actors, particularly Iran, about its commitment to defending Israel and maintaining security in the Middle East. The strategic implications for neighbouring countries are also noteworthy, as the increased U.S. military presence could impact ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
As tensions rise and the deployment of THAAD unfolds, questions remain about the potential challenges and risks this advanced defense system might pose.
Company eyes new credit and shares to survive as strikes and delays weigh the company down
Boeing is taking drastic steps to secure its future, seeking to raise at least $10 billion by selling new shares and securing a fresh credit line.
The iconic manufacturer has been struggling this year with major setbacks, including a 737 MAX mishap in January and a machinist strike that halted production.
In filings made Tuesday, Boeing revealed plans to issue up to $25 billion in shares or debt over the next three years while locking in a $10 billion credit deal.
Sources say the company will aim to raise around $10 billion from its upcoming stock offering.
Boeing called the moves “prudent steps” to ensure access to liquidity as it faces growing financial challenges.
Its stock, which began the year at $250, rose 2% to about $152 after the announcement, as analysts expressed relief over Boeing’s efforts to stabilize its cash flow.
The machinist strike, which started last month, has intensified the company’s cash problems, with Boeing burning through $1 billion per month before the walkout.
Boeing hasn’t posted a profit since 2018, and the coming months will be critical as it battles to recover.