South Korea’s security chief voices hope for ‘meaningful dialogue’ between US, North Korea

South Korea's top security official, Wi Sung-lac, expressed optimism for "meaningful dialogue" between US and North Korean leaders, emphasizing the importance of achieving tangible progress towards peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. Speaking at the Blue House, Wi stated that his administration aims to remain a "pacemaker" in the North Korea-US dialogue, building upon the "friendly relationship" between the two nations.

He also highlighted the government's commitment to maintaining close cooperation with the US, noting previous high-level talks with US President Donald Trump at the Group of Seven and NATO summits.

Wi's comments follow Trump's recent social media post, where he expressed his "very good relationship" with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea. Later that day, Trump suggested the possibility of Washington-Pyongyang dialogue after claiming Kim had responded to his offer for talks.

In response, Wi assured that the South Korean government continues to coordinate with the US on joint military exercises through their bilateral alliance, while simultaneously reinforcing their own defense capabilities. He also mentioned that Seoul has been actively involved in discussions with the US and the international community regarding the Iran war and the issue of freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

When asked about Trump's claim that South Korean President Lee Jae Myung had rejected the idea of participating in an effort to "denuclearize" Iran, Wi clarified that the administration is currently reviewing options for practical military contributions while considering domestic legal procedures. He emphasized that the issue of Iran's denuclearization has garnered significant interest due to North Korea's lack of adherence to non-proliferation promises, violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, and efforts to acquire nuclear weapons.

Wi concluded by expressing Seoul's continued interest in Iran's denuclearization and the pursuit of these positions in collaboration with the US and the international community.