South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Friday pledged to respect North Korea’s political system and work towards building “military trust,” just a day after Pyongyang declared it had no interest in improving ties with Seoul.
Since taking office in June, Lee has promised unconditional dialogue with the nuclear-armed North, marking a sharp shift from his predecessor’s more hardline approach.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule, Lee said his administration would “take consistent measures to substantially reduce tensions and restore trust” with Pyongyang.
“We affirm our respect for the North’s current system,” Lee stated, stressing that Seoul had “no intention of engaging in hostile acts.” He urged North Korea to reciprocate these efforts, adding, “North and South are not enemies.”
The comments follow remarks by Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who on Thursday dismissed prospects of improved relations and denied reports of dismantling propaganda loudspeakers.
Liberation Day on August 15 is the only public holiday observed in both Koreas. In Pyongyang, Kim Jong Un delivered a speech urging the nation to overcome current challenges but made no mention of South Korea or its “enemies” — a notable departure from past rhetoric.
Analysts said Kim’s measured tone contrasted sharply with his sister’s fiery statements. Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies, noted the absence of hostile references, suggesting Pyongyang may be watching closely how Seoul acts following President Lee’s address.
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