Lee suggests reestablishing communication channels with North Korea

On Tuesday, President Lee Jae Myung proposed reinstating communication channels with North Korea, describing it as a foundation for "peaceful coexistence" between Seoul and Pyongyang. His remarks came during the launch of the 22nd Peaceful Unification Advisory Council, where he emphasized that unification remains a crucial goal, whether it takes decades or even a thousand years.

"Our historic responsibility is to end hostilities between the two Koreas and to establish a new inter-Korean relationship grounded in peace," Lee stated, suggesting that dialogue, which has been suspended for seven years, should be the initial step.

Lee highlighted the importance of "shared growth" to benefit both nations and encouraged gradual cooperation in global concerns such as climate change, environmental protection, disaster management, safety, and public health.

"We are committed to ending the war status on the Korean Peninsula, pursuing a nuclear-free region, and achieving lasting peace," Lee said, pledging to serve as a "pacemaker" to facilitate discussions between Washington and Pyongyang. He also mentioned that his administration will take proactive steps to lower military tensions along the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) and prevent accidental border incidents.

"South Korea is among the world's top five military powers and possesses strong deterrence through the South Korea-U.S. alliance," Lee remarked, emphasizing that the nation must not remain "stuck in the past" regarding inter-Korean relations. He clarified that South Korea does not intend to unify through absorption.

Since taking office in June, the Lee administration has aimed to restore dialogue and reconciliation with North Korea. Measures include halting loudspeaker broadcasts along the border and urging civic groups to stop sending anti-Pyongyang leaflets, as part of efforts to repair strained relations.

However, prospects for renewed dialogue remain uncertain as North Korea has yet to respond to South Korea's peace initiatives. Last month, South Korea proposed military discussions to address MDL issues, but no response has been received from Pyongyang.

Author: Sophia Brooks