South Korea open to dialogue with North Korea, but provocations not to be tolerated

South Korea’s Acting President Choi Sang-mok has said that the government remains open to dialogue with North Korea but will take a firm response to any provocation from Pyongyang based on its strong alliance with the United States.

Choi made the remarks during a 2025 policy direction meeting on diplomacy and security issues with the participation of key officials from the National Security Office, as well as the foreign, unification, defence and veterans ministries, Caliber.Az reports, citing South Korean media.

"We will actively manage tensions, especially in border areas, to prevent escalation while maintaining an open stance toward inter-Korean dialogue and responding swiftly to changing circumstances," Choi said.

The acting president also noted the importance of a firm response to North Korea's provocations based on a strong defence posture and the solid South Korea-US alliance.

"In the event of a provocation, we will prioritize protecting the lives and property of our citizens and deter further provocations with overwhelming measures," he said.

Citing domestic political challenges, Choi underscored that diplomacy and security, which he said form the foundation for national survival, must operate firmly and effectively.

"I ask all the ministers, vice ministers and public officials here to dedicate themselves fully to their duties, ensuring no gaps in diplomacy and security amidst the grave domestic and international circumstances, and to continue working diligently for the stable administration of state affairs," he said.

To recall, on January 6, North Korea conducted a successful test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile. The missile reportedly travelled approximately 1,500 kilometres at speeds up to 12 times the speed of sound, reaching an altitude of nearly 100 kilometres before hitting a target in the sea. Leader Kim Jong Un described the test as a significant advancement in the nation's nuclear deterrent capabilities.

More than a week later, on January 14, North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles into its eastern waters in its second test of the year. The missiles flew about 250 kilometres before landing between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. This launch was condemned by South Korea as a provocation and a threat to regional stability.

By Khagan Isayev