South Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party has announced his intention to restore communication channels with North Korea, including military lines, and to promote co-operation projects between the North and South. The politician made the statement as part of his election programme on foreign policy and security, Korean media reported on Monday.
“To strengthen the economy and ensure stability, it is necessary to reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula. We will restore inter-Korean communications, including the military hotline, cease provocative actions on both sides, and consistently manage emerging risks,” Lee said.
Lee promised to strengthen co-operation with the US and expand engagement with international partners to advance the peace process. The politician also highlighted priority humanitarian areas, in particular support for separated families, prisoners, defectors and victims of abductions.
According to Lee, it is important to avoid politicisation in relations with North Korea and focus on achieving sustainable peace. He stressed that the approach to the DPRK should be developed taking into account public opinion, within the framework of an open dialogue with citizens.
In early 2024, Kim Jong Un announced that he was abandoning the previous course towards peaceful reunification with South Korea, and in October of the same year, the DPRK constitution enshrined Seoul’s status as an “enemy state.” The destruction of transport routes between the two countries marked the symbolic end of the break.
