Differences Between Foreign and Unification Ministries on North Korea Policy, Wi Sunglak: "It Is Not Desirable to Show Confusion Externally"

Wi Sunglak Holds Press Briefing at the Blue House
"U.S. and Japan Ask About South Korea's Official Stance"
"Striving for 'One Voice' Through NSC Coordination"
On the Autonomy vs. Alliance Faction Debate: "Not Productive"

National Security Advisor Wi Sunglak emphasized that, regarding the differences of opinion between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Unification over the Korean Peninsula Peace and Coexistence Process, foreign counterparts sometimes ask about the South Korean government's official stance. He stressed, "It is preferable not to display confusion externally."

Yonhap News Agency

Having recently returned from a series of visits to the United States, Canada, and Japan, Advisor Wi spoke at a press briefing held at the Chunchugwan in the Blue House on December 24. He said, "Such differences may be part of the process to reach a better conclusion," but also expressed these concerns. He added, "The United States and Japan are also aware of the differences between our ministries," and explained, "They sometimes ask which position represents the South Korean government's official stance."

He stated that, moving forward, the National Security Council (NSC) would coordinate opinions to ensure a 'one voice' approach. He said, "What matters is coordination within the NSC," adding, "It is important to proceed as coordinated, and if that happens, any controversy at the starting point will not become a major issue."

However, Advisor Wi refrained from commenting on the so-called conflict between the 'autonomy faction' and the 'alliance faction.' He said, "There is always much controversy, so it is difficult for me to comment. If I do, things become even more complicated. President Lee Jaemyung has already clarified many points." He continued, "Going forward, we will strive to coordinate and integrate the various opinions of different ministries through NSC discussions, and present the government's position with 'one voice.'"

He further stated, "The current focus on controversy and discord is not productive," and emphasized, "Through NSC discussions, we need to set the direction and strengthen 'one voice.' If I keep talking about the differences, it will be reported and lead to endless controversy, which is not desirable."

Regarding former Unification Minister Jeong Sehyun's critical remarks about the Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier that morning, Advisor Wi did not give a direct response, saying, "If we respond to every comment made by those outside the government, it only perpetuates controversy." Former Minister Jeong had appeared on KBS Radio's 'Jeonggyeok Sisa,' arguing that North Korea policy falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Unification, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, is trying to take the lead.