Ministry of Unification Urges Immediate Halt to Use of Kaesong Industrial Complex Facilities and Dismantling of Inter-Korean Liaison Office

Unauthorized Operation of 30 South Korean Company Facilities in Kaesong Industrial Complex
Significant Increase from About 10 Companies Operating Illegally in May
Ministry of Unification: "Violation of Inter-Korean Agreement... Will Take Measures"

Goo Byung-sam, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Unification

The Ministry of Unification emphasized that "North Korea's demolition of the Inter-Korean Joint Liaison Office building and unauthorized operation of facilities within the industrial complex constitute a violation of inter-Korean agreements and fundamentally undermine mutual respect and trust."

At a press briefing on the morning of the 8th, Ministry of Unification spokesperson Koo Byung-sam stated, "Despite the South Korean government's urging and warnings, North Korea is unauthorizedly using the facilities of our companies within the Kaesong Industrial Complex. Recently, they have been carrying out demolition work on the Inter-Korean Joint Liaison Office building, which was blown up in 2020, continuously infringing on property rights."

According to the Ministry of Unification, currently, facilities of about 30 companies within the Kaesong Industrial Complex are in operation. The demolition of the Joint Liaison Office remains ongoing since the first observation of facility dismantling trends at the end of November. The number of operating facilities was estimated to be around 10 companies in May, but this figure has significantly increased. This assessment is based on satellite information from North Korea and visual observations during both night and day by the Ministry of Unification and related agencies.

He added, "We strongly urge North Korea once again to immediately cease any acts that infringe upon the property rights of our citizens, companies, and government. We will hold North Korea accountable for property rights violations and take necessary measures if required."