South Korea’s Unification Minister Chung Dong-young called on North Korea to engage in dialogue, expressing readiness to discuss any agenda to alleviate inter-Korean tensions. During a New Year’s message in Seoul, Chung emphasized the need to end hostilities between the two Koreas this year. He affirmed South Korea’s support for private sector exchanges and cooperation in public health, medical services, and humanitarian issues without interference.
Chung reiterated South Korea’s willingness to meet with North Korea for talks at any time and place to reduce tensions. Emphasizing that Seoul does not endorse unification by absorption, he suggested advancing cross-border tourism projects, including initiatives related to the Wonsan-Kalma tourist zone and the city of Samjiyon near Mount Paektu. Additionally, South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun expressed commitment to establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula through dialogues with North Korea and other relevant nations.
Cho highlighted the importance of reflecting on necessary actions to ensure security and peace on the peninsula. He noted that the two summit meetings between South Korea and the United States would lay the groundwork for such efforts. Cho stressed the swift and proper negotiation of agreements outlined in the joint fact sheet, emphasizing the need for South Korea to enhance deterrence while pursuing dialogues with North Korea and other relevant nations.
