Lee In-young: "The Declaration of the End of the War Will Not Cause Rapid Phenomenal Changes Contrary to Concerns"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] On the 14th, Lee In-young, Minister of Unification, emphasized that the declaration of the end of the war is a catalyst for denuclearization talks and will not cause sudden changes in the situation, contrary to some concerns.

In his congratulatory speech at the "Great Debate on the Declaration of the End of the War on the Korean Peninsula" held in the main conference room of the National Assembly Members' Office Building that afternoon, Minister Lee stated, "It is a very practical and useful measure that allows us to move toward peace by building a trust-based foundation without sudden political, military, or economic changes or burdens."

Minister Lee's mention of "sudden political and military changes" appears to be in response to concerns raised mainly by opposition parties that the declaration of the end of the war could lead to the "dissolution of the UN Command" and the "withdrawal of US Forces Korea."

Minister Lee said, "It is now time to end the irrational and abnormal 'state of war suspension' that has lasted for 68 years," emphasizing, "There has never been such a case in the history of humanity or in the history of war."

He also noted that while South Korea and the United States are discussing the declaration of the end of the war, North Korea recognizes its necessity, and China supports it, stating, "In the entire 68-year history of the armistice, there has never been a phase where the support, will, and discussions of related countries regarding the end of the war on the Korean Peninsula have been so gathered and concretized," urging the promotion of the declaration.

Minister Lee said, "If we just let this opportunity slip away, we do not know how long we will have to waste time waiting," adding, "Depending on how we pass the turning point of the situation at the end of this year and early next year, the long-term fate of the Korean Peninsula will clearly change."

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