South Korea, US affirm unwavering commitment to denuclearization of Korean Peninsula

South Korea and the United States have reaffirmed their shared and “ultimate” goal of achieving the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, emphasizing that this objective remains steadfast regardless of North Korea’s position. National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac underlined this during a forum held in Seoul.

“Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula is the ultimate goal” that South Korea and the US have traditionally shared, and the target “remains unchanged whether North Korea likes it or not,” Wi stated firmly, Yonhap reports.

Wi outlined a three-stage approach South Korea plans to pursue to achieve denuclearization: halting North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs, followed by reduction, and ultimately dismantlement. Despite North Korea’s rejection of peace overtures from President Lee Jae Myung, Wi stressed the importance of resuming dialogue.

“To move toward this goal, it is important to first halt North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. We must approach it in steps — first a freeze, then reduction and finally dismantlement,” he said. “Although North Korea has not yet shown an immediate response, it is important to resume dialogue first.”

Wi also expressed concerns about North Korea’s deepening military alliance with Russia, established under a mutual defense treaty signed last year. He warned, “Russia and North Korea have reached the level of a military alliance, which is particularly concerning at a time when North Korea is advancing its nuclear and missile capabilities.”

Regarding the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju, Wi confirmed that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is not expected to attend. However, US President Donald Trump is anticipated to visit South Korea for the event.

On economic matters, Wi emphasized ongoing trade negotiations with the United States aimed at safeguarding South Korea’s national interests, acknowledging that “it is appropriate that the negotiations are not protracted,” while underscoring the importance of agreements being “feasible, sustainable and protect national interests at appropriate levels.”

Addressing territorial tensions with Japan, Wi dismissed concerns over maritime surveys near the Dokdo islets, stating that such activities are routine and cautioned against inflaming public opinion. “Dokdo, as you know, is our land,” he asserted.

By Vafa Guliyeva