Unification Minister Chung Dong-young Outlines Government Stance on Korean Peninsula Issues Before National Assembly Committee

Unification Minister Chung Dong-young addressed the National Assembly's Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, outlining the government's position on the security situation on the Korean Peninsula. Minister Chung emphasized the gravity of the current situation and stated that the government is communicating with relevant countries to pursue a diplomatic solution.

He stated that the government is prepared for unconditional dialogue to restart talks with North Korea and is exploring various ways to bring North Korea back to the negotiating table. He also asserted that the government would provide necessary humanitarian assistance to North Korean citizens, regardless of the political situation.

Members of the National Assembly's Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee questioned the minister on issues such as North Korea's nuclear weapons development, ways to improve inter-Korean relations, and the establishment of a peace regime on the Korean Peninsula. Minister Chung emphasized that the government would deter North Korean provocations based on a firm deterrent and build peace on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and cooperation.

Minister Chung stated that the government aims to transition the armistice agreement into a peace treaty and establish a permanent peace regime through close cooperation with relevant countries. He proposed expanding exchange and cooperation in various fields, including economy, culture, and sports, to improve inter-Korean relations.

Regarding North Korea's nuclear weapons development, Minister Chung characterized it as a serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia. He urged North Korea to abandon its nuclear program and return as a responsible member of the international community, stating that the international community is ready to ease economic sanctions and support economic development if North Korea makes the right choice.

Unification Minister Chung Dong-young emphasized that he will work to resolve issues on the Korean Peninsula through cooperation with the National Assembly.