President Lee plans to call for phased denuclearization of N. Korea at UN

South Korea's liberal President Lee Jae Myung intends to emphasize the necessity for a practical, step-by-step process of denuclearization of North Korea during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, according to statements made to The Associated Press. Lee suggests that both Seoul and Washington are open to reestablishing relations with Pyongyang.

In response to inquiries, Lee elaborated on his stance, comparing the process of altering the trajectory of a moving vehicle to the need for halting it first. He articulated that a phased approach encompassing cessation, reduction, and dismantlement presents a pragmatic method for effectively addressing the North Korean nuclear issue.

This stance of Lee's emerges as North Korea escalates its weapons testing activities despite President Donald Trump reducing a major military exercise with South Korea, perceived by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as a rehearsal for invasion. Lee's advocacy for phased denuclearization of North Korea arises from the complexities surrounding North Korea's evolving nuclear program, questioning whether its denuclearization can be accomplished in a single step, and fueling discussions on the importance of convincing North Korea to embark on such a path.