Kang Hoon-sik: "Korea-U.S. Customs Negotiations MOU and Fact Sheet Likely to Be Finalized This Week"

"No Major Differences Between the Two Countries"
On Customs Negotiations: "President Lee Did Not Give a Positive Answer... Many Points of Regret"
Regarding Concerns Over 'Request for Nuclear Submarine Fuel Supply' and Arms Race
"At the Time North

Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoonshik stated that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the Korea-U.S. customs negotiations, which centers on the details of the investment package, as well as the joint fact sheet, could be finalized within this week.

Yonhap News Agency

During a briefing at the Yongsan presidential office, Chief Kang said, "I previously mentioned that the process would be completed within a few days, and based on our own outlook, we believe it is possible within this week," adding, "Since there are no significant disagreements between the two countries, the fact sheet is expected to be finalized this week."

When asked about the level of satisfaction with the Korea-U.S. customs negotiations concluded on October 29, he replied, "We are not satisfied," and continued, "While we consider it a successful negotiation, President Lee Jaemyung did not give such a positive response. There are still many points of regret."

Meanwhile, in response to concerns that President Lee's request to U.S. President Donald Trump to allow the supply of nuclear-powered submarine fuel could spur an arms race, Chief Kang stated, "We are not creating further arms competition or increasing risks in East Asia," and explained, "Following North Korea's announcement of a nuclear submarine, we persuaded both China and the United States that corresponding preparation and readiness were necessary."