There has been a surge of online reactions regarding the proposed East-West Peace Highway, which would connect Incheon to Goseong in Gangwon Province, linking the Yellow Sea and the East Sea. Given the highway's route through border areas, many are expressing hopes for regional balanced development and improved transportation infrastructure, while others are raising concerns about its potential military applications due to its proximity to frontline military bases.
Recently, a map depicting the anticipated route of the East-West Peace Highway has circulated on online communities. The image shows a proposed 200-kilometer road starting from Incheon Airport, passing through Ganghwa, Paju, Yeoncheon, Cheorwon, Hwacheon, Yanggu, and Inje, and ending in Goseong.
Notably, the map includes emblems of various military units stationed along the route, such as the 103rd Infantry Brigade in Incheon, the 2nd Marine Division in Ganghwa, the 1st Infantry Division in Paju, the 3rd Infantry Division in Cheorwon, the 7th Infantry Division in Hwacheon, the 21st Infantry Division in Yanggu, the 12th Infantry Division in Inje, and the 22nd Infantry Division in Goseong, all of which are responsible for maintaining the front-line defense.
Online users have pointed out that the proposed route closely follows the border areas of the western and eastern front lines and passes near key frontline locations. One user remarked, "I don't know why, but it seems designed to withstand around 60 tons. It goes through all the military bases. The intent is clear, isn't it?" Another commented, "Is this a road for tank movements? It looks like a supply line, right? Isn't it a military road?" with a mix of humor and concern about its military potential.
Some users have interpreted the name 'Peace' as potentially misleading, suggesting that military purposes may be included. One user noted, "The name gives a hint. There are various types of unification, right?" to which another responded, "It's peace maintained by strength."
Supporters of the highway's construction argue that it would be beneficial, improving transportation for soldiers stationed at the front and addressing the transportation rights of residents in border areas, emphasizing the need for such a road for balanced development.
The primary motivation behind the East-West Peace Highway proposal is the lack of an east-west transportation network connecting the metropolitan area to the northern border regions of Gangwon. While major highways in South Korea are relatively well-developed in a north-south direction, the east-west transportation network in the border areas from Ganghwa to Goseong has been consistently criticized for its inadequacy.
Additionally, there are expectations that improving access to the border areas, which have been restricted due to military regulations, could promote tourism and invigorate the local economy. Connecting border regions such as Ganghwa, Paju, Cheorwon, Hwacheon, Yanggu, Inje, and Goseong into a single tourism and logistics axis is seen as a potential avenue for regional development.
Some have also pointed out that North Korea has recently constructed roads connecting areas near the demilitarized zone, raising concerns that this could lead to both sides solidifying their respective borders.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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