Seoul Seeks End to Korean War; Calls for Dialogue with Pyongyang

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung renewed his call for dialogue with North Korea, aiming to replace the Korean War's armistice with a lasting peace. Speaking at a ceremony commemorating the 81st anniversary of Japanese colonial liberation, Lee stated his goal is to establish a peace regime, despite North Korea's continued silence on reconciliation gestures. "Let's put aside our intentions to threaten each other and start dialogue to end this prolonged war as directly involved parties," Lee urged, suggesting discussions could include ways to curb North Korea's nuclear capabilities. He expressed hope for peaceful coexistence and mutual growth, emphasizing the need for a "multi-layered security system" to prevent crises. Lee reiterated his commitment from the previous year to respect North Korea's current system and avoid hostile actions. He also highlighted strengthened diplomatic ties with Japan, noting increased cooperation in supply chains, energy, and advanced technologies, and pledged to expand this collaboration for mutual benefit.

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Let's put aside our intentions to threaten each other and start dialogue to end this prolonged war as directly involved parties. In the process, we could also discuss effective ways to stop North Korea's nuclear capabilities.