Pakistan, Jan. 2 -- South Koreans can now freely access North Korea's top newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, ending decades of strict censorship that once required state approval due to its propagandistic and incendiary content. The change reflects Seoul's efforts to improve ties with Pyongyang.

President Lee Jae Myung, who advocates a dovish approach toward the North, said citizens will not "become commies" by reading the newspaper. Readers can now visit select public libraries without submitting applications or explaining their purpose, though online access remains restricted.

The decision has sparked debate in Seoul, with some citizens calling the move "undesirable" and comparing it to allowing access to extremist propaganda, while others do...