Kim Min-seok calls on South Korea to strengthen its own security capabilities
Kim Min-seok, leader of the ruling Democratic Party in South Korea, called for strengthening the country’s own security capabilities amid possible changes in the approach to North Korea’s nuclear program. He made the remarks in a policy speech at a National Assembly session in Seoul.
A possible new approach to the nuclear program
Kim Min-seok said Seoul should promote dialogue between the United States and North Korea while also actively responding to possible changes in relations between Washington and Pyongyang. According to him, the United States and North Korea could significantly improve their relations, while a “freeze first, settlement later” approach could be applied to the nuclear issue.
In that case, the politician stressed, South Korea should strengthen its independent security capabilities in advance. He also said the time when the country could rely solely on the United States has passed, as Washington, in his assessment, is becoming a “tough negotiating partner” rather than a “generous older brother.”
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Relations with North Korea
Kim Min-seok also proposed considering whether North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s “two states” policy could be used to promote peaceful coexistence rather than rejecting it outright. In domestic policy, he promised to pursue constitutional reform reflecting public consensus, give priority attention to public welfare, and support balanced regional development.
The statements by the Democratic Party leader were reported by The Korea Herald.
