FM outlines S. Korea's position on DMZ mine blast at G20, calls for inter-Korean talks

Foreign Minister Cho Hyun detailed South Korea's stance on a recent land mine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) during the Group of 20 (G20) meeting, urging for inter-Korean dialogue, according to a Yonhap report on Sunday. South Korea has accused the North of the Sept. 21 explosion that wounded three of its soldiers, prompting a call for military negotiations to lower tensions. Meanwhile, North Korea denies any involvement, threatening further military moves along their shared border if necessary.

At the G20 foreign ministers' gathering in Atlanta, Cho outlined Seoul's position, emphasizing the critical importance of communication between the two Koreas to alleviate tensions, as reported by the ministry. Additionally, Cho pointed out that the growing military collaboration between North Korea and Russia could pose serious security risks to the Korean Peninsula and the wider region, given their recent joint deployment of troops in support of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Cho appealed to G20 members for their support in promoting peaceful coexistence and reducing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. He also stressed the necessity of international cooperation to guarantee unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while highlighting that Seoul will persistently strive for safety in this vital maritime route.