Kim Du-kwan: "Appoint a Special Minister with Full Authority on Inter-Korean Issues to Resolve Them"

Kim Du-gwan, member of the Democratic Party of Korea./Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Cheol-eung] Kim Du-gwan, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, said about the Korea-US working group, "Shouldn't it be disbanded or its members changed?" He also proposed a special minister with full authority over inter-Korean issues.

On the 19th, Kim appeared on YTN Radio's 'Noh Young-hee's Start Morning' and said, "The issues on the Korean Peninsula should be led proactively by us, the owners of the Korean Peninsula," adding, "Recently, regarding inter-Korean issues, I have often felt regret seeing the Korea-US working group, a practical task force, set a red line and even restrict matters that should be decided by the leadership or heads of state."

He continued, "It seems that the Korea-US working group is composed of people who represent the US position well. At least, more people who try to resolve inter-Korean issues from a more autonomous standpoint should be included in the Korea-US working group." He added, "In this situation, it cannot be said that the working group has no responsibility."

He had previously proposed establishing two liaison offices in Seoul and Pyongyang. Regarding this, Kim said, "At times like this, reverse thinking is more important than a hardline response," and added, "When everyone calls for a hardline response, someone must speak for peace."

He further explained, "Taking this opportunity to negotiate better and establish liaison offices functioning as embassies in Pyongyang and Seoul is a more proactive development of relations. That is why I used the phrase 'a blessing in disguise.'"

Kim also emphasized, "Some conservative media outlets reported with headlines saying 'in the midst of this,' criticizing me as crazy for suggesting making two offices after one was blown up. It is precisely at times like this that reverse thinking is necessary."

He pointed out that even during past heightened tensions, inter-Korean leaders showed breakthroughs through joint declarations, and after launching intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), the PyeongChang Olympics were held, and after nuclear tests, summits were held as well.

He also proposed a special minister. Kim said, "Rather, regarding the Korean Peninsula and inter-Korean issues, I have thought about appointing a special minister with full authority who would handle all practical negotiations and ultimately receive presidential approval."

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