Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, dismissed recent overtures for dialogue from South Korea’s new liberal government, asserting that North Korea has no interest in discussions regardless of the proposals made. Her remarks indicated a clear stance that the North views any potential engagement with the South as unnecessary, reflecting a broader reluctance to engage diplomatically with both South Korea and the United States in the near future.
Analysts note that North Korea’s current focus on strengthening ties with Russia, especially amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, suggests little incentive to reassess its diplomatic strategies with its southern neighbour or the US. However, should circumstances change—particularly if Russia’s support wanes—North Korea might reconsider its approach.
Kim Yo Jong’s statement, communicated through state media, reinforced the official North Korean position. She stated, “no matter what policy is adopted and whatever proposal is made in Seoul, we have no interest in it and there is neither a reason to meet nor an issue to be discussed with South Korea.” This declaration marks North Korea’s first formal response regarding the administration of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, who took office in early June with aims to mend the deteriorating relations between the two Koreas.
Despite gestures from President Lee’s administration to ease tensions—such as halting anti-Pyongyang propaganda broadcasts, prohibiting activists from sending balloons with leaflets, and repatriating North Korean defectors—Kim Yo Jong dismissed these actions as insufficient, claiming they mirror past administrations’ overly trusting attitudes towards the US military alliance.
She particularly mentioned the upcoming joint military exercises between South Korea and the US, which Pyongyang perceives as provocations. Since the breakdown of nuclear talks with the US in 2019, which ended over disagreements regarding sanctions, North Korea has largely refrained from communication with both South Korea and the US. The regime’s focus has shifted towards enhancing its nuclear capabilities as a deterrent against perceived threats.
Currently, North Korea is deepening its relationship with Russia, reportedly supplying troops and conventional arms to aid Moscow in its military efforts in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for economic and military support. Concerns have been raised that such cooperation could facilitate advancements in North Korea’s own nuclear and missile technologies.
In a surprising political move in early 2024, Kim Jong Un has initiated changes to the North Korean constitution, formally designating South Korea as an “invariable principal enemy,” thereby abandoning the longstanding goal of peaceful reunification. This shift not only reinforces the divide between the two Koreas but also reflects Kim’s intention to consolidate power and limit the influence of South Korean culture within the North.
Experts suggest this constitutional change could provide Kim with greater justification for potential nuclear actions against South Korea, viewing it not as a partner in unification conversations but as an adversary.