Lee reaffirms commitment to 'pacemaker' role to promote N. Korea-U.S. dialogue

President Lee Jae Myung has reaffirmed his commitment to serving as a pacemaker to promote dialogue between North Korea and the United States during a written interview with French media outlet Le Monde. The interview, published on Sunday, comes as Lee arrived in Nice for the first leg of his four-day trip to France, which includes a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.

Lee stated that his role as a pacemaker aims to revive North Korea-U.S. dialogue, which could help halt the advancement of Pyongyang's nuclear capabilities. He emphasized that dismantling the "wall of distrust" between the two nations would not be an overnight process, reaffirming his administration's dedication to its peaceful coexistence policy toward North Korea. This policy aims to reduce inter-Korean tensions and foster peace.

The South Korean president also commented on U.S. President Donald Trump's recent remarks regarding South Korea, clarifying that they do not constitute an attack that could jeopardize the alliance's sustainability. Instead, Trump's remarks represent an intent to reform the alliance based on new demands arising from changing circumstances.

Lee highlighted South Korea's efforts to expand its role in the alliance by increasing defense spending and bolstering its military capabilities. In terms of South Korea-France relations, the president noted that the bilateral friendship is entering a new phase focused on the future, pledging further efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Lee's trip to France is in response to an invitation from Macron, following Macron's visit to South Korea in April. The exchange of visits coincides with the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.