On Tuesday, the Ministry of Unification assessed North Korea’s positive response to President Lee Jae Myung’s expression of regret regarding the drone incident. The Ministry stated that the swift confirmation of both leaders’ intent to halt unnecessary military tensions, along with the ensuing communication, marks a significant step towards peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula.
The Ministry further emphasized that there is no justification for hostility between South and North Korea, and confrontation benefits neither side. They reiterated the government’s firm commitment to avoiding hostile actions against North Korea while consistently pursuing a policy of peaceful coexistence on the peninsula.
During a Cabinet meeting at the Blue House the previous day, President Lee addressed the drone incident, saying that while it was not the government’s intention, it regrets the unnecessary military tensions caused by certain irresponsible and reckless actions. This marked the president’s first public expression of regret concerning the incident.
In response, Kim Yo-jong, Deputy Director of the Workers’ Party, issued a statement that evening. Referring to President Lee Jae, she noted that it is highly commendable that the president personally expressed regret and mentioned preventive measures. The government views this as a wise decision on his part. She added that their leader had demonstrated a frank and magnanimous attitude. The term its leader is believed to refer to Kim Jong Un.
This instance marks the first time North Korea’s leadership has used the formal title, President Lee Jae Myung, and responded positively to the current South Korean administration. Previously, Kim had referred to the president simply as Lee Jae Myung or the South Korean president. Analysts suggest that this drone incident has prompted both leaders to indirectly resume dialogue, despite the long-standing suspension of inter-Korean communication channels.
North Korea’s unusually prompt response, despite its typically hostile stance, indicates the seriousness with which it views foreign drone incursions into its airspace. Some experts also posit that while North Korea outwardly promotes policies of separation, it internally recognizes the continued importance of its approach towards South Korea.