Cabinet approves amendment of the
Enactment Decree of the Act on Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation
February 23, 2021
□ As follow up measures to the amendment of the Inter-Korean
Exchange and Cooperation Act (hereinafter referred to as the “Act”),
the amendment of its enforcement decree was approved by the Cabinet.
o The amendment of the enforcement decree aims to set out matters
necessary for the composition and operation of a policy council of
local governments on inter-Korean exchange and cooperation
(hereinafter referred to as the Council) as delegated by Article
24(2) of the Act.
- The revised law designates local governments as principle
agents of inter-Korean exchange and cooperation projects, and
stipulates that a Council be established under the Ministry of Unification.
o The Council will be chaired by the Vice Minister of Unification,
and shall be comprised of 20 members or less. The chairperson and
members of the Council, which shall be Director-General level
officials from local governments, will explore ways to improve and
support projects, policies and the general system in pursuing
inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation. Furthermore, a working
committee is to be established to conduct a preliminary review of the
agenda to be presented at the Council meeting, and to handle affairs
delegated by the Council.
□ The amendment allows for the Council to function systematically
and with stability. Furthermore, the Council is expected to promote
inter-Korean exchange and cooperation at the local government level as
it will enhance communication and cooperation between the Ministry and
local governments.