South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense announced Wednesday it will ease land-use restrictions along its border with North Korea. The change will allow civilian development on approximately 260 square kilometers of land, an area nearly half the size of Seoul. This decision aims to promote regional development and improve the quality of life for residents in the border region. The eased restrictions follow a period of inter-Korean detente and reduced military tensions, though specific details regarding security measures were not immediately released. The move represents a significant shift in land management policy for the heavily fortified border area. Officials anticipate the development will spur economic growth and offer new opportunities for communities near the Demilitarized Zone. The initiative is part of broader efforts to foster reconciliation and cooperation on the Korean Peninsula.