The vision outlines three key principles: "freedom-based values," "changes in the North Korean populace," and "international solidarity." These principles aim to guide South Korea's approach to reunification in the future.
His vision for reunification has met with mixed reactions. While the ruling People Power Party (PPP) supports it, the main opposition Democratic Party (DP) and several civic groups have criticized it, suggesting that a one-sided approach might strain inter-Korean relations further.
At the conference, held at the Presidential Office in Yongsan, Seoul, Yoon explained, "The essence of a liberal democracy is that it does not conduct invasive wars unless it needs to defend itself against war."
He emphasized that the South Korean Constitution is fundamentally geared toward reunification, not to solidify division. The vision "is not about presenting something new. It is about maintaining a view of reunification that is faithful to the Constitution," he added.
Yoon also highlighted the need for continued communication and cooperation with the international community including neighboring countries. "Since the division of the two Koreas is a result of international politics, efforts should be made to ensure that the reunification of the Korean Peninsula is seen as beneficial, rather than detrimental, to all involved," he said.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Unification said that South Korea has been seeking dialogue with North Korea, but there has been no response so far.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
