Unification Ministry Expresses "Strong Regret" Over Haegumgang Hotel Demolition... "Stop Immediately" (Comprehensive)

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] The Ministry of Unification expressed "strong regret" on the 8th regarding the dismantling of the Haegumgang Hotel in Geumgangsan and urged an immediate halt.

Deputy Spokesperson Cha Deok-cheol of the Ministry of Unification stated at a briefing that, "The government strongly regrets North Korea's unilateral dismantling of the Haegumgang Hotel and sternly urges an immediate stop and the commencement of inter-Korean consultations."

This is the first time our government has expressed regret over North Korea's dismantling of the Haegumgang Hotel.

Signs of the Haegumgang Hotel dismantling have been detected since last month. Voice of America (VOA) reported, based on satellite images, that North Korea is dismantling the Haegumgang Hotel. Our government requested an explanation from North Korea last week regarding the dismantling but has not received any response.

Deputy Spokesperson Cha said, "We also deeply regret that North Korea has not responded at all to our legitimate proposal for sufficient explanation and to start consultations regarding the dismantling of the Haegumgang Hotel."

He pointed out that the Geumgangsan tourism project symbolizes inter-Korean cooperation, stating, "North Korea's unilateral dismantling of the Haegumgang Hotel is clearly an act that goes against the spirit of mutual respect and joint efforts based on consultation between the South and the North."

He added, "It is also a clear violation of the inter-Korean agreement to protect the assets of investors from the other side, as well as the trust between business operators who have resolved all matters through mutual consultation."

Deputy Spokesperson Cha said, "We hope that even now North Korea will provide sufficient explanation to us regarding the dismantling of the Haegumgang Hotel and promptly respond to consultations to resolve the Geumgangsan issue," and added, "The government will continue to closely consult with our business operators and take all necessary measures to protect the property of our citizens."