Date: Monday, June 5, 2023
Time: 10:30-10:34 A.M.

 

1. Minister’s Schedule

Unification Minister Kwon Youngse will attend the cabinet meeting today at 1:30 P.M.

 

2. Vice Minister’s Schedule

Vice Minister Kim Ki Woong will deliver a lecture at Seoul National University today at 3:30 P.M.

 

3. Q&A

Q) Could you confirm a report this morning that an inter-Korean exchange organization solely took the local government subsidies and failed to send humanitarian aid to North Korea? Also could you elaborate on how the Unification Ministry is managing follow-up measures after approving the delivery of humanitarian aid to the North, whether the approved items are actually being sent as the responsible organization declared?

A) Regarding the report, we are currently looking into the matter. Once confirmed, the Ministry will take necessary actions.

The Ministry approves a request to deliver humanitarian aid to North Korea, and the relevant organization is required to submit a summary report after the delivery is made in accordance with the Ministry’s internal regulations.

Q) So if there was nothing sent to the North, there is no need for the report?

A) I would have to double check on that, but there would be nothing to report if the delivery did not occur.

Q) After the first satellite launch last week, North Korea mentioned that it would not notify the IMO of the impact point of its carrier in the future. On June 2 and 3, there were reports about unusual activities detected near the main launch pad at North Korea’s Sohae Satellite Launching Ground. What is the Ministry’s take on the North’s statement in terms of its intentions and could you share any updates on related trends?

A) It is very disappointing that North Korea indicated it may not notify the IMO of its plans to launch a satellite, which is increasingly distancing itself from international norms and common sense. Let me make it clear that such an attitude will only deepen its international isolation and the suffering of its people. We once again urge North Korea to choose the right path for its future.

As for the trends in missile launches, we are monitoring the situation with the relevant ministries.
Q) Regarding Kim Yo Jong’s statement of not giving an advance notice, this could have serious implications on South Korea’s fishermen or naval vessels. Is there any governmental discussions involving the Unification Ministry to respond for that?

A) We do not have additional information at this point.