Let’s listen to first and decide N. Korea’s proposal

Let’s listen to first and decide N. Korea’s proposal. May. 23, 2016 07:36. by 한기흥기자 eligius@donga.com.

Kim Jong Un seems to have started a series of peace offensives after mentioning the need for an inter-Korean military talks at the recent North Korean ruling Workers’ Party Congress. Pyongyang said in its communication sent to the South from the Ministry of People’s Armed Forces on Saturday, “We propose a working level meeting for inter-Korean military talks at the end of May or early June at a convenient date and place.” Kim Ki Nam, a Vice Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, urged Seoul to have dialogues and negotiations on the same day. In an official letter on Friday, North Korea’s National Defense Committee said, “Our proposal for military talks is the most realistic solution for the sake of the country’s peace and the folk’s safety.”

In response to the North’s series of proposals, South Korean Unification Minister Hong Yong-pyo said in an interview with the Dong-A Ilbo, “It is only an excuse to continue its nuclear development and Kim Jong Un’s power. Without denuclearization, it is evident that it would be difficult to have talks for real peace.” In fact, as Pyongyang is cornered by sanctions imposed by the international community, it is apparently using a bargaining chip of a dialogue to divide the international community and encourage an internal division in the South.

Pyongyang’s intention is clear but we need a serious strategic review on whether an instant rejection is the best option or not. North Korea’s National Defense Committee claimed, “If the inter-Korean military communication channel is completely blocked and both point a gun at each other, it would lead to unexpected military conflicts and consequently the outbreak of an all-out war.” The North sent the South this communication through the military communication line, which was closed when the Kaesong Industrial Complex bordering the two Koreas closed in February. Although it has an intention of blackmailing, an inter-Korean communication channel is better than nothing in any circumstances.

It would not be late if we confirm‎ what the North has in mind regarding denuclearization and then decide whether to hold inter-Korean military talks. It is unrealistic to close the door of dialogues until North Korea denuclearizes itself. Beijing and Washington also reviewed denuclearization talks and a discussion over shifting to a peace treaty. Though the current focus should be sanctions, we should consider resuming talks under our leadership at a good time. North Korea heralds a series of peace offensives, saying, “You will see our drastic practical measures in the near future.” Though we can be disappointed again, it would be better to listen to it first and then make a decision.