The two primary tasks of the Unification Ministry: Revealing the
reality of North Korea and expanding the understanding of unification.
The Unification Ministry holds a New Year’s gathering, inviting
former Ministers of Unification (January 8)
On January 8, the Ministry of Unification held a New Year’s
gathering, inviting seven former Ministers of Unification*, including
Son Jae-sik (10th).
At this gathering, Unification Minister Kim Yung Ho explained the
recent situation on the Korean Peninsula and outlined the direction of
the unification work for this year. Minister Kim also listened to the
opinions of former ministers regarding their experiences with
inter-Korean relations and their perspectives on future policy directions.
* Ministers in attendance: Son Jae-sik (10th), Lee Hong-koo (14th
and 20th), Kang In Deok (24th), Park Jae Kyu (26th), Hyun In-Taek
(35th), Yu Wook Ik (36th), and Hong Yong-Pyo (38th).
Minister Kim particularly highlighted that, considering the
stringent situation on the Korean Peninsula lately, this year’s focus
will be on four key tasks: “Establishing inter-Korean relations based
on principles,” “Addressing the North Korean nuclear issue through the
Audacious Initiative,” “Drawing tangible outcomes regarding North
Korean human rights,” and “Making preparations for unification in full swing.”
Furthermore, the minister stressed that revealing the reality of
North Korea and expanding the understanding of unification are
paramount at this stage.
While expressing concerns over the recent situation on the Korean
Peninsula, former ministers called for the Ministry of Unification to
play an active role at this point in time.
Primary Opinions
Son Jae-sik, “Reveal the reality of North
Korea.”
Lee Hong-koo, “Resume inter-Korean dialogue.”
Kang
In Deok, “Engage in logical psychological warfare against North
Korea.”
Park Jae Kyu, “Discuss unification issues home and
abroad.”
Hyun In-Taek, “Keep a close watch on the situation of
North Korea.”
Yu Wook Ik, “Realize the value of
‘freedom.’”
Hong Yong-pyo, “Expand discussion on unification with
the young generations.”
