The Blue House stated on November 12 that the likelihood of a North Korea-U.S. summit or any behind-the-scenes contacts during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) summits is low. It also assessed that North Korea's participation in this multilateral diplomatic stage is unlikely.
A senior official from the Blue House told reporters at a briefing that "overall, we see a low possibility." While they are cautious about completely ruling out the chance for contact, they do not believe there is a high likelihood of a meeting occurring during the summit's timeframe and location. The official clarified that keeping the possibility of contact open does not imply any specific timeframe for a potential meeting.
They noted that while there may be more room for discussions outside the summit's timeframe and location, this does not mean there is a significant likelihood of such meetings. The official assessed that expectations and interest in a North Korea-U.S. summit are currently greater than the actual chances of it happening, adding that they are communicating with the United States to prepare for related developments.
When asked about the possibility of negotiations recognizing North Korea's status as a nuclear power, the official responded, "It's premature to speculate on whether there will be specific negotiations given the uncertainty."
Regarding the potential for U.S.-China-Russia talks, the official indicated they are paying attention to related reports and observations, noting that discussions on the Korean Peninsula issue cannot be ruled out, and they are maintaining necessary communications with relevant countries. However, they stated they do not have precise information about the Russian delegation attending APEC and are awaiting announcements from China.
The official mentioned that while North Korea appears to be preparing broadcasts aimed at South Korea, there have been no significant developments beyond basic preparations. They also noted that work on North Korea's barbed wire along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is ongoing, with no new situations reported.
Despite challenges in China-Japan relations, the official reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and developing the framework for trilateral cooperation among South Korea, China, and Japan. They expressed openness to improving South Korea-Japan relations and continuing preparations for shuttle diplomacy between the two countries.
On the timing of the return of the South Korean ambassador to Ukraine, the official stated that diplomatic communications are ongoing to address current issues, and actions will be taken based on progress in consultations. They also mentioned that there were productive discussions in Paris and expressed hope for further advancements.
Concerning the impact of the U.S. midterm election results on issues such as U.S. investment, nuclear-powered submarines, and nuclear agreements, the official suggested that concerns may be somewhat exaggerated. They emphasized that discussions on these matters are being conducted at the government-to-government level, highlighting the importance of intergovernmental consultations and progress. They noted that as long as the broader agreements are implemented effectively, U.S. investment should proceed smoothly.
Regarding the transfer of wartime operational control, the official stated that discussions are ongoing through recent meetings between the South Korean and U.S. defense ministers, visits by policy chiefs to the U.S., and diplomatic channels. They indicated that discussions are progressing, albeit slowly, and that there have been no visible impacts related to the midterm elections thus far.
The senior official from the Blue House also mentioned that they are maintaining diplomatic communications with the U.S., Iran, and other relevant countries regarding the expansion of the Cheonghae Unit's operational scope, while consulting with the National Assembly. They reiterated their commitment to protecting South Korean citizens and vessels, participating in international cooperation for safe and free navigation, and safeguarding energy security interests, while asserting their right to exercise minimal defensive measures when necessary.
On the relocation of the Gwangju military airport, the official stated that preparations and consultations for the relocation of U.S. military facilities are underway, with no significant issues reported. They emphasized that there is currently no basis for concerns that the relocation will be delayed due to U.S. military facilities.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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