South Korea's president has stated he would agree to a deal between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un that would result in North Korea freezing the production of its nuclear weapons, as an alternative to full disarmament. Speaking to the BBC, Lee Jae Myung pointed out that North Korea is producing an additional 15 to 20 nuclear weapons every year and sees a freeze as a 'feasible, realistic alternative' to denuclearization.
North Korea proclaimed itself a nuclear power in 2022 and has pledged never to give up its weapons. Lee emphasizes, As long as we do not abandon the long-term goal of denuclearization, there are clear benefits to preventing North Korea from advancing its nuclear and missile capabilities. The question is whether to continue with futile attempts towards denuclearization or set more realistic goals to achieve some progress.
President Lee, who took office in June, aims to foster peaceful relations with North Korea and lower tensions that heightened under his predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, who faced impeachment attempts amidst martial law considerations. The South Korean leader has been vocal about desiring President Trump’s return to negotiations with Kim, which collapsed in 2019 after demands for dismantling North’s nuclear facilities.
In a parliamentary address, North Korean leader Kim expressed willingness to negotiate with Trump, under the condition that the US withdraws its demand for denuclearization. Lee expressed belief that Trump and Kim could reconnect, considering their previously established trust could pave the way for advances in peace and security for South Korea and beyond.
Ahead of his attendance at the UN General Assembly, Lee commented on the utility of the UN Security Council, despite challenges posed by China and Russia blocking sanctions against North Korea. He remarked on balancing South Korea’s diplomatic relations amidst rising ties between China, Russia, and North Korea, and indicated a preference for close collaboration with the US and Japan.
Lee's comments reflect a pragmatic approach, recognizing the complex geopolitical landscape while seeking peaceful coexistence amid evolving strategic alliances on the Korean peninsula.
