The Ministry of Unification has opted out of the scheduled U.S.-South Korea meeting on Tuesday aimed at aligning North Korea policies.
A Ministry spokesperson explained that the Foreign Ministry’s discussions with the U.S. are focused on follow-up talks regarding the Joint Fact Sheet. This pertains to diplomatic matters between the nations, and the Unification Ministry won’t be participating.
The official clarified that as allies, it coordinates with the U.S. as needed – the Defense Ministry handles defense policies, while the Foreign Ministry manages diplomatic affairs. For North Korea-related issues, such as inter-Korean dialogue and cooperation, the Unification Ministry will engage in separate talks with the U.S. when necessary.
The Ministry, however, did not disclose whether the agenda for the Tuesday diplomatic talks has shifted away from North Korea policy.
The spokesperson reiterated that its stance on close coordination with relevant agencies and between South Korea and the U.S. on North Korea policy remains unchanged.
The U.S. and South Korea are set to commence regular consultations through existing diplomatic channels starting Tuesday to align their North Korea strategies. However, the Unification Ministry is expected to abstain, contending that the Foreign Ministry’s lead role in coordinating North Korea policy is not appropriate.