The two primary tasks of the Unification Ministry: Revealing the reality of North Korea and expanding the understanding of unification.

The Unification Ministry holds a New Year’s gathering, inviting former Ministers of Unification (January 8)

On January 8, the Ministry of Unification held a New Year’s gathering, inviting seven former Ministers of Unification*, including Son Jae-sik (10th).

At this gathering, Unification Minister Kim Yung Ho explained the recent situation on the Korean Peninsula and outlined the direction of the unification work for this year. Minister Kim also listened to the opinions of former ministers regarding their experiences with inter-Korean relations and their perspectives on future policy directions.

* Ministers in attendance: Son Jae-sik (10th), Lee Hong-koo (14th and 20th), Kang In Deok (24th), Park Jae Kyu (26th), Hyun In-Taek (35th), Yu Wook Ik (36th), and Hong Yong-Pyo (38th).

Minister Kim particularly highlighted that, considering the stringent situation on the Korean Peninsula lately, this year’s focus will be on four key tasks: “Establishing inter-Korean relations based on principles,” “Addressing the North Korean nuclear issue through the Audacious Initiative,” “Drawing tangible outcomes regarding North Korean human rights,” and “Making preparations for unification in full swing.”

Furthermore, the minister stressed that revealing the reality of North Korea and expanding the understanding of unification are paramount at this stage.

While expressing concerns over the recent situation on the Korean Peninsula, former ministers called for the Ministry of Unification to play an active role at this point in time.

Primary Opinions
Son Jae-sik, “Reveal the reality of North Korea.”
Lee Hong-koo, “Resume inter-Korean dialogue.”
Kang In Deok, “Engage in logical psychological warfare against North Korea.”
Park Jae Kyu, “Discuss unification issues home and abroad.”
Hyun In-Taek, “Keep a close watch on the situation of North Korea.”
Yu Wook Ik, “Realize the value of ‘freedom.’”
Hong Yong-pyo, “Expand discussion on unification with the young generations.”