South Korea’s proposal for military talks with North Korea reflects a cautious but important effort to prevent dangerous escalation along the demilitarised zone. After months of incidents where North Korean troops crossed the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) while constructing defensive barriers, Seoul is urging both sides to reaffirm a clear and mutually recognised boundary. Missing marker posts from the 1953 armistice have led to differing interpretations of where the line actually lies, increasing the risk of accidental clashes as tensions rise under Kim Jong-un’s recent directive to harden the border. This marks the first direct proposal for dialogue since Lee Jae Myung took office as South Korea’s president, signalling a willingness to pursue communication even as military channels remain largely severed. With warning shots fired and provocations mounting, aligning expectations on the MDL could help restore stability and rebuild fragile trust. Whether Pyongyang will respond remains uncertain, but Seoul hopes the move sparks broader engagement for peace.