Lee Vows Efforts to Help Swiftly Resume U.S.-North Korea Dialogue

In a significant address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reiterated his commitment to act as a 'pacemaker' for peace on the Korean Peninsula. He emphasized the urgent need to resume dialogue between the United States and North Korea, which has been stalled for some time.

President Lee expressed hope that the long-suspended discussions could restart without delay, stating, "We will lay the groundwork for this dialogue to develop into a conversation aimed at ending the war on the Korean Peninsula and transitioning to a peace regime." He acknowledged the technical state of war that persists between the two Koreas since the Korean War.

Highlighting recent diplomatic opportunities, Lee referenced U.S. President Donald Trump's renewed interest in engaging with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. He expressed confidence that such dialogue could foster stability and cooperation in Northeast Asia, while also pursuing North Korea's denuclearization through a phased approach.

During his speech, President Lee called for a collaborative effort from the international community, particularly the United Nations, to support these diplomatic endeavors. He reiterated his administration's commitment to peaceful coexistence with North Korea, advocating for inclusive and responsible cooperation in various areas, including public health and climate change.