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Lee Jae Myung Vows to Normalize Ties with North Korea Despite Kim's Rejection

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has reaffirmed his commitment to improving ties with North Korea, despite Pyongyang's recent rejection of dialogue overtures. He called for an end to past confrontation and emphasized the need to build trust through consistent communication and cooperation. Lee urged reflection on whether previous humiliating or threatening approaches have truly served South Korea's interests and security. This comes as South Korea's defense ministry consults with the US on potentially reinstating parts of a suspended 2018 inter-Korean military pact.

Key Points: S. Korea's Lee Commits to N. Korea Dialogue Amid Tensions

  • Lee vows to normalize inter-Korean relations
  • Kim Jong-un dismissed Seoul's dialogue overture
  • Focus on building trust and mutual understanding
  • Calls for reflection on past confrontational approaches
  • South mulls reinstating parts of 2018 military pact
2 min read

South Korean President Lee reaffirms commitment to improve ties with North Korea

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reaffirms commitment to improve ties and build trust with North Korea, despite Pyongyang's dismissal of dialogue overtures.

"We should decisively put an end to the past that was racing toward confrontation and war. - Lee Jae Myung"

Seoul, Feb 26

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday vowed to continue efforts to normalise relations with North Korea despite Pyongyang's rejection of his dialogue overture, saying the two Koreas should move beyond past confrontation and pursue peace and stability.

Lee reaffirmed his commitment to improving ties after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un dismissed dialogue with Seoul, describing the South's overture as deceptive while appearing to leave the door open for talks with Washington as he wrapped up the North's key party congress the previous day, Yonhap News Agency reported.

"We should pursue such values as peace and stability," Lee said at a meeting with senior aides at Cheong Wa Dae. "We should decisively put an end to the past that was racing toward confrontation and war."

He also called for sober reflection on past approaches that have stoked tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

"We need to seriously consider whether previous acts of humiliation or threats toward North Korea have truly contributed to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula or served the Republic of Korea's interests and security," he said.

To normalise inter-Korean relations, Lee underscored the need for sustained efforts to ease long-running hostility and build trust with Pyongyang.

"I believe lasting peace and stability can ultimately take hold on the Korean Peninsula by consistently communicating, engaging in dialogue and making efforts to cooperate, and steadily building trust and mutual understanding," he said.

On February 19, South Korea's defence ministry said it will push for reinstating a no-fly zone under the suspended 2018 inter-Korean military pact in a way that does not affect a military readiness posture.

The ministry also said it is in consultations with the United States over Seoul's push to partially restore the military pact, a day after Unification Minister Chung Dong-young disclosed the government's plan.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Reading this from Delhi. The Korean situation reminds us that peace processes require immense perseverance. Kim Jong-un seems to be playing a classic divide-and-rule tactic between Seoul and Washington. Lee's government must stay united and clear in its approach.
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Priya S
Building trust is key, but it takes two to tango. North Korea's rejection is disheartening. However, as an Indian, I believe you should never close the door on dialogue. Our own history with neighbours teaches us that. Wishing the Korean people peace and prosperity.
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Rohit P
I appreciate President Lee's sober reflection on past approaches. Sometimes, a change in tone and humility can open new doors. However, I hope this doesn't come across as weakness. National security cannot be compromised. The consultations with the US are crucial.
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Vikram M
The geopolitical dynamics here are complex. While the intent for peace is good, North Korea's primary interest seems to be direct talks with the US, sidelining South Korea. Seoul must ensure it remains the central party in any resolution concerning its own peninsula.
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Michael C
A respectful criticism: President Lee's approach of ending "acts of humiliation" is noble, but it risks overlooking the fundamental provocations and human rights issues from the North. Peace cannot be built by ignoring the reasons for the confrontation in the first place. The path needs to be balanced.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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