Lee proposes dialogue with N. Korea to officially end Korean War, halt Pyongyang's nuclear program

SEOUL, Aug. 15 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung suggested that the two Koreas initiate discussions aimed at concluding their prolonged conflict and addressing ways to prevent North Korea's nuclear program from escalating, vowing to strive for a peace regime throughout the Korean Peninsula. During a ceremony commemorating the 81st Liberation Day, Lee emphasized the need to cease hostile intentions and engage in dialogue as the directly engaged parties.

He further stated, "In the process, (we) may also discuss effective methods to curb the advancement of the North's nuclear capabilities." The two Koreas have been technically engaged in a war since the 1950-53 Korean War concluded with an armistice, not a peace treaty. Lee announced his intent to initiate a process to end the war and replace the unstable armistice system with a peace regime.

The North's lack of response to Seoul's previous conciliatory efforts since Lee assumed office in June last year prompted his proposal.