Ministry of Unification: "US Contact with North Korea Was Pre-Consulted Between South Korea-US Diplomatic Authorities"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] The Ministry of Unification stated regarding reports that the United States attempted to contact North Korea since last month but received no response, "We understand that there was prior consultation between the South Korean and U.S. diplomatic authorities."

Lee Jong-joo, spokesperson for the Ministry of Unification, said at the regular briefing on the 15th, "South Korea and the U.S. have closely communicated and cooperated throughout the entire process of reviewing the U.S. policy toward North Korea."

He added, "During the U.S. policy review process toward North Korea, the government has had various opportunities to express opinions, and through these opportunities, the Ministry of Unification's views have also been conveyed."

Regarding the lack of response from North Korea to the ongoing South Korea-U.S. joint military exercises since the 8th, he said, "Rather than presuming North Korea's intentions, we urge North Korea to show wise and flexible attitudes in response to our efforts and determination surrounding the South Korea-U.S. joint exercises."

Concerning the 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup Asian second qualifying matches scheduled to be held in South Korea in June, he stated, "We plan to calmly prepare matches involving North Korea, such as inter-Korean games, in accordance with FIFA regulations and international standards."

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