Government Hints at '5·24 Easing' Related to Individual Tourism

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Dong-pyo] The government has indicated that it may interpret the '5·24 Measures' imposed in 2010 in response to the Cheonan ship sinking more flexibly, in relation to South Koreans' individual tourism to North Korea.

At a regular briefing on the 17th, Lee Sang-min, spokesperson for the Ministry of Unification, responded to the question, "The 5·24 Measures include a provision banning our citizens from visiting North Korea, but what happens if individual tourism takes place?" by saying, "The government basically hopes that visits to North Korea by our citizens will take place in various forms, thereby expanding opportunities for civil exchanges between South and North Korea."

He continued, "Previous administrations have also taken flexible measures regarding individual visits to North Korea on various occasions. Visits to North Korea have been carried out through flexible measures in connection with humanitarian aid to the North, socio-cultural exchanges, and talks between authorities."

He also reiterated that individual tourism to North Korea is fundamentally an issue to be conducted through inter-Korean consultations.

The spokesperson stated that tourism does not fall under North Korea sanctions, so "if there is a response from North Korea, it can be independently promoted under cooperation between South and North Korea," adding, "In reality, although South Korean citizens are currently not allowed, foreign tourists are touring North Korea, which is a practical consideration."

Regarding direct tourism between South and North Korea via Mount Kumgang or Kaesong, he said, "We are exploring various ways to cooperate between South and North Korea."

When asked whether the government’s plans had been conveyed to North Korea, he replied, "We are closely monitoring North Korea’s situation and attitude and are working with relevant ministries to devise practical measures."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.