이 대통령 ‘다자 대화’ 제안에 반응없는 북한…기념행사 보도만

On the occasion of the 81st anniversary of Korean independence, North Korea has remained largely silent in response to South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol's proposal for a multi-party discussion, known as "Daeja Dialogue." South Korean media outlets, including Labor News and the Chosun Ilbo, reported on various commemorative events held throughout the country to mark the day. However, these accounts did not touch upon President Yoon's proposal for the talks.

During the 81st anniversary of Korean independence, President Yoon suggested that "the journey to end the war on the Korean peninsula and transform the current unstable armistice framework into a peaceful one should begin with a discussion among the parties involved. This could also provide a practical solution to halt the North's nuclear capability advancement." This was a first-time proposal of its kind by a South Korean leader.

Nevertheless, North Korea ignored President Yoon's proposal and instead focused on highlighting its own struggle and resistance. Labor News reported that North Korean citizens visited landmarks such as the Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il mausoleums, the Mansu Hill Cemetery, and the Hyon Son Memorial to pay respects. In Pyongyang, performances by the Mansudae Art Troupe and the Pyebaek Theater were held, marking the national holiday.

Additionally, a tug-of-war competition was organized at Kim Il-sung Stadium, where the Donggang and Hwarang teams faced off.

Following the recent 2024 celebrations of the 8th of August, Kim Yeon-jung, a former labor party deputy, responded with a cold remark, stating that "South Korea cannot be foreign policy partners for our country." At that time, President Yoon had expressed his hope for North Korea to respond positively to efforts aimed at restoring dialogue and restoring relations.

Despite President Yoon's call for peace, North Korea remained unresponsive to his message, mirroring its consistent lack of reaction to similar events in the past.