So, according to GlobalSecurity.org, the US and South Korea haven’t gone to WATCHCON2 since June of 1999.

The WATCHCON, or Watch Condition to measure reconnaissance posture against the DPRK, was upgraded Friday after the exchange of fires between the two Koreas.

According to the article, there are four “Watch Conditions”:

• WATCHCON 4 is in effect during normal peacetime.
• WATCHCON 3 is in effect amidst indications of an important threat.
• WATCHCON 2 is in effect amidst indications of a vital threat.
• WATCHCON 1 is in effect during wartime.

I don’t know what they’re playing over that loudspeaker, but it seems to be irritating. I’ve read it’s a mix of gentle propaganda and Korean pop music. You can hear some of it if you’re interested, but you’ll need some kind of browser plugin to do so.

via S. Korea concerned about further DPRK provocation over propaganda broadcasts | Shanghai Daily.