Jung Eui-yong: "Korean Peninsula Peace Process, A Path We Must Take... Actively Considering Joining CPTPP"

Foreign Minister nominee Chung Eui-yong appeared at the confirmation hearing held by the National Assembly's Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee on the 5th, responding to the members' questions. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Jeong Eui-yong, the nominee for Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that "the Korean Peninsula peace process is a path that must be taken" and emphasized that he will focus diplomatic efforts on achieving substantial progress in denuclearization based on coordination with the new U.S. administration.

In his opening remarks at the Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee hearing at the National Assembly on the morning of the 5th, Jeong said, "As President Moon said at the National Security Council (NSC), the Korean Peninsula peace process is not a choice but a path that must be taken."

Jeong expressed his aspirations, saying, "With increasing uncertainty in the international situation, more proactive and strategic diplomacy is necessary. If entrusted with the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs, I consider it my last opportunity to serve the nation and will strive to position Korea as a leading country realizing peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia.

First, I will focus on diplomacy to achieve complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and permanent peace policies. Based on three core principles, I will promote diplomacy, lead North Korea’s participation in the Northeast Asia health and quarantine cooperation framework, and establish a foundation for a peace, security, and life community in East Asia.

Additionally, I will promote exchanges at the summit and high levels with the Biden administration and develop the ROK-U.S. alliance into a healthier, mutually beneficial, and comprehensive partnership through efforts such as rational resolution of alliance issues.

He also stated that he will promote high-level visits such as Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Korea and ensure that the bilateral relationship, which will mark its 30th anniversary next year, develops in a future-oriented manner.

Foreign Minister nominee Chung Eui-yong appeared at the confirmation hearing held by the National Assembly's Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee on the 5th and took the witness oath. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

Regarding Japan, he said, "As a close neighbor, we will cooperate for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia. Although there are various issues between the two countries, we will resolve them through diplomatic dialogue and communication, especially restoring human and economic exchanges and expanding cooperation in areas such as environment and health." He also evaluated Russia as playing an important role in the Korean Peninsula peace process and emphasized creating opportunities for high-level exchanges and cooperation, including Russian President Putin’s visit to Korea this year.

Furthermore, he expressed his ambition to pursue middle power diplomacy as a bridge between developed and developing countries and to take the lead as a country responding to climate change. He pledged to promote economic diplomacy supporting economic recovery by expanding fast-track channels for businesspeople and actively consider joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).