President Lee Jae-myung stated on July 1 that "we must keep knocking on North Korea's door, which is firmly locked. If we keep knocking, it will eventually open."
As North Korea continues its policy of severing ties with South Korea under the 'hostile two-state theory,' President Lee reiterated his commitment to resuming inter-Korean dialogue.
Speaking at the 22nd Eurasia Regional Conference of the Democratic Peace Unification Advisory Council in Incheon, he remarked, "Just because something is difficult does not mean it is impossible."
President Lee emphasized that "South Korea stands as a global leader in advanced industries, even with the tensions along the Korean Peninsula. However, we cannot be satisfied with this achievement."
He added, "If the North and South can stop hostility and confrontation to achieve peace, we can fully realize our potential and achieve greater accomplishments than ever before. To usher in the era of the Korea Premium, we must transform the armistice system into a peace system."
Furthermore, President Lee pledged, "Since taking office, I have consistently declared that I will respect North Korea's system, refrain from pursuing absorption unification, and avoid any hostile actions. I will keep this promise."
He also stated, "We will restart actions toward peace and will find a way for the North and South to coexist peacefully while respecting each other's systems and sovereignty."
Additionally, he urged, "We must confront our own indifference to hostility and confrontation. Instead of dividing ourselves into 'you' and 'me,' we must embrace each other to unite as one."
Earlier that day, President Lee had lunch with former President Moon Jae-in, during which he sought advice on inter-Korean relations. According to Hong Ik-pyo, the president's chief political secretary, Moon expressed his willingness to do whatever he can to help.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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