North Korea has intensified forest fire prevention efforts in South Hwanghae province, citing national security concerns. Authorities launched measures to control forest access and mitigate wildfire risks during the dry season.
On November 22 and 23, the provincial people’s committee held a two-day emergency teleconference with city and county forest rangers. Officials instructed teams to strengthen the forestry command system and mobilize personnel to prevent fires.
The committee ordered checkpoints at major forest entrances and deployed lookout teams with inspection authority. These teams now monitor forests and respond immediately to fire outbreaks. The public can enter forests only with special permits. Officials banned matches, lighters, cigarettes, and other flammable items for all entrants.
Authorities warned that starting forest fires could count as attempting to overthrow the state. Violators would face strict punishments. Fire prevention teams must also create firebreaks in high-risk areas using earth and sandbags. Reforested zones with young trees received special protection.
Deputy chairpersons of city and county people’s committees became forest fire prevention commanders. They now oversee wildfire operations, coordinate responses, and report regularly to the provincial authorities. Officials increased the command system to a wartime-level alert with immediate reporting requirements.
The people’s committee designated the period before the mid-December party plenary meeting as a “primary general mobilization period for preventing forest fires.” They warned that officials failing to prevent fires would be considered “criminals who caused a national disaster.”
Experts say the campaign combines strict enforcement with public awareness. Linking forest fire prevention to national security encourages compliance and underscores the political importance of wildfire control.
South Hwanghae authorities are now focusing on rigorous monitoring and enforcement to protect both ecological and political stability. Forest fire prevention remains the central priority, with widespread mobilization, strict regulations, and continuous oversight.
