Date: Monday, February 5, 2024
Time: 10:30-10:35 A.M.

 

1. Minister’s Schedule

On February 5, from 3 P.M., Unification Minister Kim Yung Ho will take part in a New Year’s Roundtable Discussion with presidents of four prominent research institutions.

On February 6, at 3 P.M., Minister Kim will attend a general meeting of the Ministry’s 2024 policy advisory council to deliver opening remarks and present certificates to newly appointed members.

On February 7, at 12 P.M., Minister Kim will visit and console families of abduction victims on the occasion of Lunar New Year’s Day.

At 3 P.M., Minister Kim will visit Heavenly Dream School, an alternative school for North Korean defectors.

On February 10, at 11 A.M., Minister Kim will deliver a speech at Mangbaedan Memorial Altar at Paju.

 

2. Q&A

Q) Is the Unification Future Planning Committee’s role limited to the formulation of the New Future Initiative on Unification (tentative name), or are they also working on improving the National Community Unification Formula?

A) The Unification Minister has offered an explanation regarding this in last week’s radio interview. I would like to refer you to the Minister’s remarks made during the interview.

Q) Did the Unification Ministry communicate with and share the newly unveiled symbol of forget-me-nots and clothing pieces revealed during Seoul Fashion Week with related organizations?

A) The Ministry collected the opinions of relevant organizations regarding the forget-me-not symbol itself. Meanwhile, clothing pieces showcased at the fashion show, to my understanding, is within the discretion of the designer.

Q) Then has the Ministry communicated with related organizations after the outfits were presented to the public at Seoul Fashion Week, and are you aware of their opinions?

A) As the fashion show took place over the weekend, the matter can be discussed this week if necessary.

Q) Though I cannot name specific groups, some have commented that the show only portrayed the dark side of the issue and that the message of the forget-me-nots was not fully conveyed. Could you explain how the Ministry plans to further publicize the meaning of the symbol?

A) The Ministry is currently reviewing various methods and directions to promote the symbol, and will let the public know when it is confirmed. The fashion show was the Ministry’s attempt to raise awareness regarding issues concerning abductees, detainees and prisoners of war in a new light.