National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik departed for China on Tuesday to attend the Victory Day celebration commemorating the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Prior to his departure, he mentioned the possibility of meeting Kim Jong Un, Chairman of North Korea’s State Affairs Commission, saying that if they meet, they might discuss peace issues on the Korean Peninsula, but he’s not sure if such an opportunity will arise and he’ll see once he arrives.
At Terminal 1 of Incheon International Airport, Woo responded to questions from reporters regarding a potential meeting with Kim. He clarified that his decision to visit China was not made with the intention of meeting Chairman Kim.
When asked about a recent report from the National Intelligence Service suggesting potential changes in North Korea’s stance toward South Korea, Woo emphasized that if he has the opportunity to meet with Chairman Kim, they will likely discuss shared interests such as ways to expand peace on the Korean Peninsula.
Regarding the possibility of delivering a message from President Lee Jae-myung to Kim, Woo explained that although the Speaker of the National Assembly is not a special envoy, there was communication with the presidential office during the planning of this trip and that this visit is part of that ongoing dialogue.
In his pre-departure remarks, Woo underscored the significance of the year, stating that this year marks the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation and China’s victory in the war. Further adding that sharing the history forms the foundation of their bilateral relationship, and that he’s here to commemorate this important occasion.
He continued that he met with President Xi Jinping in February, and the leaders had a phone call in June following President Lee’s inauguration. He believes that maintaining high-level exchanges will strengthen Korea-China relations, which is why he accepted this invitation.
Woo stressed the importance of key events like the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, adding that it is crucial to leverage these opportunities to enhance Korea-China relations in the national interest.
He further noted that as the global order evolves, nurturing Korea-China relations during this transformative period is vital. He believes this will significantly benefit the economy, which influenced his decision to undertake this visit.
Woo also expressed his intention to address the concerns of Korean companies operating in China, aiming to help expand their operational bases there.
The delegation comprises members of the Korea-China Parliamentary Union: Park Ji-won, Kim Tae-nyeon, Park Jeong, and Hong Ki-won from the Democratic Party, as well as Kim Jun-hyung from the Rebuilding Korea Party. Kim Seong-won from the People Power Party, who was initially scheduled to join, will not be attending.