Dr. Hacker: "For North Korea Denuclearization, Consider a Flexible Approach Including Sanctions Relief"

Lee In-young, Minister of Unification, Reveals in Video Conference
"Yongbyon Should Not Be Underestimated... Policies Based on Science and Technology to Be Pursued"
Moon Chung-in: "US Choices May Vary Depending on North Korea's Actions"

Dr. Siegfried Hecker

Dr. Siegfried Hecker, considered one of the top authorities on North Korea's nuclear issue, stated on the 11th, "Based on past denuclearization negotiations, sanctions and pressure alone have limitations in achieving (North Korea's denuclearization)," adding, "A flexible approach that considers easing sanctions as a policy tool is necessary."

The Ministry of Unification reported that on the same day, Minister of Unification Lee In-young held a video conference with Dr. Hecker and Moon Jung-in, co-chair of the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network (APLN), to discuss solutions for North Korea-U.S. negotiations aimed at making substantial progress in denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and permanent peace policies.

Dr. Hecker is an American nuclear physicist who has visited North Korea seven times since 2004 and personally inspected the Yongbyon nuclear facilities. During the meeting, he emphasized, "The significance of Yongbyon in the North Korean denuclearization process should not be underestimated." He added, "It is important to pursue sophisticated policies based on science and technology in nuclear negotiations with North Korea."

Hecker also stated, "Since denuclearization is a long-term process, diplomatic approaches along with cooperation between South and North Korea, the parties involved in the Korean Peninsula issue, to foster peace are crucial."

Co-chair Moon mentioned, "The next U.S. administration's choices may vary depending on North Korea's actions," and added, "Since President-elect Biden has emphasized close consultations with the allied South Korean government in the process of pursuing North Korea policy, positive outcomes should be derived through South Korea-U.S. policy coordination."

Minister Lee said, "At this time of changing circumstances on the Korean Peninsula, we will do our best efforts to not lose possibilities and opportunities and to move forward again for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the establishment of permanent peace."

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