Kim Tae-hyo: "North Korean Human Rights Are the Essence of Inter-Korean Policy... Must Reveal the Harsh Reality"

Kim Tae-hyo, the First Deputy Director of the National Security Office, stated on the 29th that "North Korean human rights are the essence of North Korea policy" and emphasized the need to inform the world about the human rights situation in North Korea.

Deputy Director Kim delivered a congratulatory speech at the 'North Korean Human Rights Sage Group and Digital Liberalization Symposium' hosted by the International Academy and Yonsei Human Liberty Center at the Westin Chosun Hotel, saying, "Because it is necessary to raise awareness of the current horrific human rights situation in North Korea and strengthen international cooperation, our diplomatic efforts during tours, diplomacy with any other countries, and inter-Korean dialogue must include human rights issues as a core agenda item."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Kim Young-ho, Minister of Unification, also stated in his congratulatory speech that it is necessary to inform North Korean residents about the outside reality, adding, "Especially among the North Korean MZ generation familiar with Korean dramas and Hallyu culture, the effect of inflow of outside information will be even stronger."

In the subsequent discussion, experts and attendees urged active responses to the North Korean human rights issue. Song Sang-hyun, former President of the International Criminal Court (ICC), said, "It is difficult at this time for the UN Security Council or South Korea to refer North Korean authorities to the ICC," but added, "If horrific acts are committed by North Korea, there could be a way to issue an arrest warrant against Kim Jong-un at the ICC level."

Representative Tae Yong-ho of the People Power Party suggested, "South Korea, the United States, and Japan should begin legal battles to receive compensation from North Korea (related to issues such as the capture of South Korean soldiers or the destruction of the inter-Korean liaison office)," and added, "They should locate and seize North Korean assets, stop real estate rental businesses operated by North Korean overseas embassies, and start legal battles to seize real estate."

The Sage Group announced eight recommendations on the day, including ▲the international community paying attention to human rights violations in North Korea ▲the UN Security Council holding North Korea substantially accountable ▲UN agencies providing refugee camps for North Korean defectors in China ▲the Security Council referring the North Korean situation to the ICC.