Julie Turner, U.S. Department of State Special Envoy for North Korean Human Rights, suggested that cooperation with non-traditional partners close to North Korea should be considered to address the issue of human rights oppression in North Korea.
At the 2024 North Korean Human Rights Seoul Forum held at Seoul City Hall last Thursday, during a discussion about human rights and international cooperation measures, Turned said. Countries of the Global South, ASEAN countries, and countries like Mongolia could play a significant role in addressing the human rights issue in North Korea. She emphasized that expanding cooperation with non-traditional partners can raise awareness about the human rights issue in North Korea and that increasing access to information should be a priority.
In response to a question about potential shifts in the U.S. stance on North Korean human rights following a U.S. presidential election, she stated, “The issue of human rights in North Korea is one that both parties are vocal about,” and emphasized, “The position will remain unchanged, regardless of the election results.”