"This Is Why Martial Law Was Blocked"... Han Dong-hoon Speaks Out on US Designation of 'Sensitive Country'

"Restrictions on Research Cooperation in Advanced Technologies Such as Nuclear Power and AI"
"Even the Lowest Category Still Impacts Us"

Yonhap News

Former People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon stated that one of the reasons he took the lead in swiftly preventing martial law was due to concerns about the decline in international perception, as exemplified by the U.S. adding South Korea to the 'Sensitive Country List (SCL)' in January, just before the end of the Biden administration.

On the 15th, Han wrote on Facebook, expressing concern that "being placed on the Sensitive Country List restricts research cooperation and technology sharing in advanced fields such as nuclear power and AI with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)."

The Sensitive Country List designated by the U.S. Department of Energy refers to countries requiring special consideration for policy reasons. The DOE may include certain countries on the list due to national security, nuclear non-proliferation, regional instability, economic security threats, or support for terrorism. Most of these are countries the U.S. has designated as adversaries, such as North Korea, China, and Russia. South Korea was placed in the lowest category, 'Other Designated Country.'

Han noted, "Even though it is the lowest category, there could still be impacts on us." He urged, "Our government must first thoroughly understand the reasons for the designation as a sensitive country and the potential effects on our economy. Especially before the designation takes effect on April 15, we must make every effort through focused discussions with the U.S. to be removed from the Sensitive Country List."

He added, "Last winter was a time when our political situation was extremely unstable. One of the reasons I took the lead in swiftly preventing martial law was due to concerns about the decline in international perception, as in this case. This is why political stability must be achieved as soon as possible." He continued, "Fortunately, there are many negotiation cards with the newly inaugurated Trump administration. We must further strengthen research cooperation in advanced science and technology fields between Korea and the U.S., such as the recent maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) contract with the U.S. Navy. Just as the ground hardens after rain, it is more important than ever to approach this situation as a new opportunity. We have the cards."