Jang Hojin, Director of National Security Office, "Movement to Establish a New Order"
"Combination of Weapon Types Will Vary Depending on Russia's Position"
Jang Ho-jin, Director of the National Security Office at the Presidential Office, stated on the 23rd, "The international community is undergoing new changes, and the biggest change is that this is the greatest period of transformation in over 30 years since the post-Cold War era," adding, "It is the government's mission to create an environment that maximizes national interests in accordance with the changed landscape."
Director Jang made these remarks during an appearance on KBS Sunday Diagnosis, sharing his views on the recent international situation surrounding the Korean Peninsula, including North Korea-Russia relations.
He said, "With the collapse of socialism, the Soviet Union changed to Russia, and China also reformed and opened up. Now, liberal democracy and capitalism have triumphed, and although it may take some time, I have viewed this as a process of converging into a single order. However, as you know, there are movements that refuse to comply with this order and aim to establish their own new order."
He continued, "If previously it was a game played on a flat field, now the field has faults or cracks," adding, "The diplomatic and security situation is now quite challenging."
Director Jang emphasized, "One of the government's missions is to maximize our national interests according to this changed landscape and to create an environment where our citizens can live safely and enjoy economic prosperity," and stated, "We will carry out this mission with a strong sense of duty and diligence."
Government: 'If Russia supplies weapons to North Korea, there will be no more red lines'
Kim Jong-un, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea, and Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, held a meeting on the 19th at the Kumsusan Guesthouse, according to a report by the Korean Central News Agency on the 20th. [Image source=Yonhap News]
In particular, regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea and the signing of a treaty akin to a military alliance, Director Jang warned, "If Russia supplies highly advanced precision weapons to North Korea, what red lines would remain for us?" and added, "It depends on Russia's actions." This is interpreted to mean that if Russia provides advanced weapons to North Korea, the South Korean government may also support Ukraine with weapons without restrictions.
Director Jang mentioned that President Putin's recent visit to North Korea appears largely motivated by the need to receive necessary weapons or supplies from North Korea due to the war in Ukraine.
When asked about the types of weapons the South Korean government is considering providing to Ukraine, Director Jang said, "There could be various combinations," but added, "It is premature to specify what we will provide as it could weaken our leverage against Russia."
He further explained, "Our official announcement was that we are 'reconsidering weapon support to Ukraine,'" and said, "Our weapon support to Ukraine will depend on how Russia responds to our warnings." He elaborated that whether lethal or non-lethal weapons, many combinations can be made depending on technological advances, and the support package may vary according to Russia's stance.
Regarding President Putin's warning to the South Korean government on the 21st that "weapon support to Ukraine is a big mistake," Director Jang said, "He said that upfront, but also mentioned that South Korea need not worry too much," and added, "I believe Putin is also explaining the contents of the treaty he signed with North Korea to us."
Russia Approaching Red Line... Discussion at NATO Next Month
On future South Korea-Russia relations, Director Jang expressed concern, saying, "This is not something we manage alone; Russia must also make corresponding efforts," and noted, "Recent Russian trends have shown signs of approaching the red line."
He said, "That is why we issued this warning," and added, "If Russia wants to restore and develop relations with South Korea after the war, I want to urge them to carefully consider their actions." He continued, "There should be no escalation of factional responses or new external variables after the war," and emphasized, "It is important to conclude the war without Russia becoming completely isolated, ostracized, or sanctioned by the international community."
Regarding whether the North Korea-Russia issue will be discussed at the upcoming North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) meeting scheduled next month in Washington, D.C., he said, "The military cooperation issue between Russia and North Korea has already become an international issue, including Europe, not just a Korean Peninsula or Northeast Asia issue," and added, "Naturally, there will be discussions on this matter."
Amid views suggesting a rift in recent North Korea-China relations, Director Jang addressed the possibility of Chinese President Xi Jinping visiting South Korea, stating, "It is important to establish a new foundation for mutual respect in the South Korea-China relationship," and added, "President Xi's visit will be handled within that broader framework."
Director Jang explained, "Regarding President Xi's visit, there was a meeting between Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and President Xi at the opening ceremony of the Hangzhou Asian Games last September, during which President Xi said he would seriously consider visiting South Korea."
He continued, "Going forward, through 1.5-track dialogues and vice-ministerial strategic talks, strategic communication will continue, and specific conditions and timing for the visit will be arranged."
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