South Korean President Lee urges North Korea to join talks to end Korean War

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called on North Korea to join in dialogue aimed at formally ending the Korean War, proposing a path toward peace and denuclearization.

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Last year, I used this occasion to express my respect for the North Korean system and my commitment not to engage in any hostile behavior or pursue any kind of ‘unification by absorption.’

Speaking on the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japanese colonial rule, Lee urged Pyongyang to set aside mutual threats and initiate discussions on practical methods to halt its nuclear weapons development. He envisioned a future of peaceful coexistence and shared growth, emphasizing the need for both Koreas to cease unnecessary confrontations and foster mutual respect.

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Today, one year later, I want to offer a blueprint for putting those fine-sounding ideas into practice.

"Both North and South should cease unnecessary confrontations and show their respect for each other," Lee stated. He stressed the importance of reducing hostility in how each side perceives the other's norms and systems. Lee also outlined a vision for establishing systems to manage tensions and prevent crises, believing that peace on the Korean Peninsula would bring stability to Northeast Asia and contribute to a world without nuclear weapons.

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Both North and South should cease unnecessary confrontations and show their respect for each other.

Beyond inter-Korean relations, President Lee also addressed domestic issues, highlighting his intention to reclaim wealth amassed by national traitors and Japanese collaborators. He affirmed that funds confiscated through a special act would be used to honor and support independence activists and their families, demonstrating a commitment to historical justice and national integrity.

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Peace on the Korean Peninsula will bring about stability and cooperation in Northeast Asia and become a milestone on the path to a world without nuclear weapons.