Ministry of Unification "Considering Flexible Sanctions to Promote Denuclearization... Kim Jong-un's Return Visit Within the Year is Desirable"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] A senior official from the Ministry of Unification emphasized that a flexible application of sanctions against North Korea should be considered to promote denuclearization. Regarding the possibility of Kim Jong-un's reciprocal visit, the official said it is "still valid," leaving the possibility open.

At a background briefing on the 25th, the senior official said, "It is time to take a closer look at how to handle the sanctions issue."

He stated, "The goals we aimed to achieve through sanctions, such as denuclearization and nuclear abandonment, have not produced significant results despite considerable time passing," and added, "Considering that (President Biden) mentioned an appropriate mix of sanctions and relief during his candidacy, and that some policy views in Washington suggest a flexible approach to sanctions, it is necessary to evaluate the sanctions issue once and consider using a flexible approach to promote the denuclearization process."

Regarding the ruling party's speculation about Kim Jong-un's reciprocal visit in July, he said, "Before considering the possibility, in a sense, it is a promise, and that promise is still valid," adding, "If it is desirable for the reciprocal visit to take place during President Moon's term, since there is a presidential election next year, it would be preferable for it to happen this year."

About Kim Yo-jong, who was recently demoted from First Deputy Director to Deputy Director, he said, "It is reasonable to believe that her practical influence can continue," and although "there have been formal changes such as in the candidate membership of the Political Bureau, she still maintains a ranking within the top 20 of the Central Committee."