President Yoon Visits Press Room... Responds "Of Course" to 'North Korea's Proposal for Working-Level Talks'

"Promise to Strengthen Communication... On Sensitive Questions, 'We Are Reviewing Everything Reported in the Media'"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan] President Yoon Suk-yeol announced his policy to provide COVID-19 medical supplies to North Korea and stated that he would also propose working-level talks with the North for related consultations.

On the afternoon of the 13th, during a visit to the press room on the first floor of the Yongsan Presidential Office, President Yoon responded to the question, "Will you propose working-level talks to support COVID-19 vaccines to the North?" by saying, "Of course. Basically through the Ministry of Unification line." This is interpreted as confirming North Korea's willingness to accept COVID-19 medical supplies through the Ministry of Unification, the relevant government agency.

Earlier, President Yoon decided to provide COVID-19 vaccines and other medical supplies to North Korean residents. This stance came just one day after the National Security Office of the Presidential Office strongly condemned North Korea's ballistic missile launch as a serious provocation, indicating that humanitarian support such as vaccines remains possible regardless of military demonstrations. A senior official from the Presidential Office also explained, "We have not received any contact from the North," adding, "Rather than our government changing its position, we are jointly concerned about the humanitarian situation in North Korea and are monitoring while reviewing what can be done together with the international community."

During his visit to the press room at the government complex, President Yoon promised to strengthen communication, saying, "I will come often so that the people do not forget." When asked by reporters how often he would visit, he replied, "I will come often. Today, I came once to check if there are any inconveniences and to listen a bit."

He gave brief responses to sensitive questions about current issues. Regarding Kim Seonghoe, the Secretary for Religion and Multicultural Affairs, who was embroiled in a controversy over offensive remarks, President Yoon said, "I am reviewing everything that has been reported in the media." After stepping onto the briefing stage, he stated, "In the future, not only the spokesperson but also each chief and responsible secretary will come here to communicate whenever any issues arise in their respective areas," adding, "Since this has just started, let's not rush and build a good system."