Civilian Control Line to Move North by 2km, Large Restricted Zones Slated for Removal

The Ministry of National Defense is pushing for measures to improve military facility regulations, which include advancing the Civilian Control Line (CCL) by an average of 2 kilometers in border areas close to North Korea, and lifting restrictions on protected zones that span an area 150 times the size of Seoul's Yeouido island. These steps are intended to alleviate the inconveniences faced by residents in border regions and foster local development. The ministry's plan, announced on June 17 by Minister of National Defense Ahn Kyu-baek as part of regulatory improvements for military facilities, will begin with CCL adjustments across border areas starting next year.

Currently, the CCL is established, on average, 8 kilometers south of the Military Demarcation Line. However, following reviews of local terrain and operational plans, it is deemed adjustable to an average of 6 kilometers south of the MDL, effectively moving the line northward by approximately 2 kilometers. The Ministry of National Defense will improve the criteria for designating restricted protection zones south of the MDL, which were previously set under a blanket policy. This aims to minimize the operational review and management needs for military units, allowing for regional development within the scope that does not impede military operations.

The state will bear the full cost of the CCL adjustments. Phased implementation of the CCL adjustments will commence in 2027, including the relocation of CCL guard posts and enhancements to surveillance systems. The Ministry of National Defense will prioritize the removal of 23 sites, such as Yongchi and road protection areas, where military effectiveness has diminished due to changes in the operational environment, in 2027. A comprehensive survey will be conducted in the latter half of this year to establish annual improvement plans.

Starting next year, a CCL access management system utilizing mobile apps and simplified authentication will be established to improve entry waiting times and administrative delays. Efforts will continue to address resident inconveniences in border areas, including simplifying flight approval procedures for agricultural drones.