South Korea backs Trump’s push to resume talks with North Korea

South Korea has expressed support for US President Donald Trump’s initiative to restart dialogue with North Korea, emphasizing denuclearization and security concerns. National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac stated that Seoul would back confidence-building measures and the resumption of talks between Washington and Pyongyang, cautioning that any progress should revolve around achieving substantive results in addressing nuclear issues while upholding the nation's security preparedness.

This sentiment emerged as Trump intensified his outreach efforts toward North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, although Pyongyang has yet to formally signal a willingness to re-enter negotiations. The national security adviser's remarks underscored the need to balance diplomatic engagement with South Korea's security priorities, amid a backdrop of renewed US diplomacy aimed at reviving discussions with Pyongyang.

Following Trump’s directive to his aides to arrange a potential meeting with Kim Jong Un in the fall, The Wall Street Journal reported that the aim is to reignite diplomatic efforts initiated during the president’s first term. Plans for a direct summit between Kim and the US president are under consideration during Trump’s upcoming Asian tour, possibly coinciding with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in China.

However, no formal agreements have been set in motion yet. On the other hand, North Korea has steadfastly refused to endorse talks, reinforcing its condemnation of the United States, stating that it views Washington’s stance as “persistent hostility.” This stance was articulated by a Foreign Ministry spokesperson in response to a proposed $125 million arms sale to South Korea, a move Pyongyang deemed a "new security threat."

With an arsenal of nuclear warheads, numerous US administrations have typically avoided direct meetings with Kim Jong Un without the stipulation of preconditions.