The Unification Ministry stated on October 26 that it hopes Kim Jong Un's visit to Dandong, China, will contribute to peace on the Korean Peninsula and the resumption of dialogue among neighboring countries.
Yoon Min-ho, a spokesperson for the ministry, said during a regular briefing at the government complex in Seoul, "We are closely monitoring the impact of Chairman Kim's visit to Dandong on the situation on the Korean Peninsula, paying attention to its timing, format, and content."
He added, "We expect it will lead to constructive contributions toward peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and the resumption of dialogue among neighboring countries."
Kim visited Dandong, located in Liaoning Province, China, on October 24, crossing the new Yalu River Bridge. He met with Wang Huning, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and toured the Anti-American Aid Korea Memorial Hall before returning the same day. There was no meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Regarding whether this visit is aimed at coordinating a US-North Korea summit, Yoon stated that the government will continue to monitor the situation and fulfill its role.
In addition, Yoon commented on North Korea's letter to the chair of the UN Security Council, claiming that the recent mine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) was a South Korean setup. He assessed this as a counter-response to a letter previously sent by the South Korean government.
Yoon noted, "It appears they are trying to justify their so-called 'border fortification' efforts while reiterating their existing stance on the DMZ mine explosion incident."
He mentioned that discussions among relevant ministries regarding follow-up measures to the mine explosion are ongoing and decisions will be made based on the outcomes of those discussions. When asked about the government's stance on independent cyber sanctions against North Korea, he replied that they would consult with relevant ministries based on existing positions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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