South Korea, EU condemn North Korea's support for Russia, reaffirm denuclearization goal

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and the European Union have agreed on the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula during a summit in Brussels. The joint statement, issued after talks with European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressed "grave concern" over North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs and reaffirmed the commitment to denuclearization.

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We express grave concern over North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs and reaffirm our commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

The leaders also strongly condemned North Korea's support for Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. They urged an immediate halt to such assistance, stating that it enables Russia's war. This condemnation highlights international efforts to isolate North Korea and hold it accountable for its actions on the global stage.

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We condemn the support of third parties, especially North Korea, which enables Russia's continued war of aggression against Ukraine, and call for its immediate cessation.

Furthermore, the joint statement addressed maritime security, specifically the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The leaders emphasized the importance of safe passage, the protection of civilians and infrastructure, and adherence to international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This reflects concerns over potential disruptions to global trade routes amid the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. President Lee also held separate meetings with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and King Philippe during his visit.

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We emphasize the freedom and safety of navigation and safe passage, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and the need for all to fully respect international law, including maritime law as reflected in UNCLOS.