N. Korea signals openness to dialogue if talks serve its interests: unification minister

North Korea has signaled a willingness to engage in dialogue with the United States, according to Unification Minister Chung Dong-young. This statement comes a day after the sister of the North's leader, Kim Jong-un, indicated that dialogue with Washington remains a potential avenue for peace. During a parliamentary interpellation session, Chung expressed this perspective, emphasizing that North Korea views dialogue as beneficial if it aligns with its interests.

He noted that yesterday, North Korea directly acknowledged the necessity of dialogue for achieving peace. The minister highlighted that Pyongyang has made clear a precondition for initiating dialogue: the correction or revision of hostile policies toward North Korea, including sanctions, military exercises, and human rights concerns.

Stressing the importance of mutual respect and consideration for progress in inter-Korean relations, Chung reiterated his call for a reevaluation of these issues.