'OUR FOREIGN POLICY AND DOMESTIC REFORMS ARE TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN'

It is a well-known fact across the globe that the North Korean regime is irrational and unpredictable, but we have been consistent in strengthening our defense posture against the threat from North Korea since the Korean War, and I believe that their conventional capability is much inferior to that of the Korean military.

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Q. How concerned are you about a confrontation with North Korea in light of recent events?

A_That is why they are sticking to their nuclear programs and advancing their nuclear capabilities. However, based on our strong combined extended deterrence, we are prepared for any concerns or threats from North Korea. I would like to reassure the global community that there is no need to worry about them.

They accuse you of provocation. How do you respond and what measures would you consider for conciliation?

The reason that we are maintaining our defense posture and our readiness against North Korean provocation is to maintain peace. Since the birth of the Republic of Korea, my country has never intended to invade North Korea. Their accusation does not make sense, and Korea's GNI (gross national income) is 60 times larger than that of North Korea. In case of famine or natural disaster in North Korea, we have many times proposed to provide humanitarian assistance as the Republic of Korea's constitution articulates that the residents in the North are also citizens of the Republic of Korea. However, depending on their political need, they sometimes accepted our assistance and sometimes they refused.

In my address on Liberation Day in 2022, I made it clear that if North Korea embarks toward a clear path for denuclearization, we will provide a security guarantee and we will improve the livelihood of its people in a remarkable manner. We will provide audacious economic and industrial support for them.

Most South Koreans support development of independent South Korean nuclear weapons. What are your views?