Master Plan on Development of Inter-Korean Relations: “Normalizing inter-Korean relations” in accordance with the principles of “peaceful unification based on the liberal democratic order.”

The 1st meeting of the 2023 Inter-Korean Relations Development Committee (October 18)

On October 18, the 1st meeting of the 2023 Inter-Korean Relations Development Committee*, chaired by the Minister of Unification, was held.

The meeting deliberated on the “4th Master Plan (2023-2027)” and the “2023 Implementation Plan,” which encompass mid- to long-term development directions for inter-Korean relations.

* The Inter-Korean Relations Development Committee, comprised of 15 government members, including the Minister of Unification (Chairperson), and 15 nongovernment members appointed by the National Assembly, aims to establish a “Master Plan on Development of Inter-Korean Relations” (hereafter referred to as “master plan”) and deliberate on important matters for the development of inter-Korean relations.

The master plan (draft) laid out five key goals, including pushing for Pyeongyang’s denuclearization and establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula, normalizing inter-Korean relations based on principles, resolving the human rights issues in North Korea and humanitarian issues, strengthening analysis of North Korean intelligence, and preparing for unification with the South Korean people and the international community. The implementation plan singled out twenty-one detailed goals.

Unification Minister Kim Yung Ho explained that the Master Plan on Development of Inter-Korean Relations encompasses mid- and long-term development directions to normalize inter-Korean ties and establish peace on the Korean Peninsula. He urged North Korea to cease its wrongful behavior and make the right choice—returning to the open door of dialogue.

The Ministry of Unification will reflect the discussions of the committee and finalize them through the Cabinet and vice-ministerial meetings, report to the National Assembly, and make them open to the public.