— If Washington respects the current status [nuklearny] our country, enshrined in the Constitution, and withdraws its hostile policies, there is no reason why we cannot get along well with the United States Kim said, quoted by the official KCNA news agency.
North Korea rejects dialogue with its neighbor
In the same speech, however, the leader adopted an uncompromising attitude towards the southern neighbor. He noted that Pyongyang has “absolutely no interests” in relations with Seoul and will permanently exclude him from the “category of compatriots”.
— Until South Korea can escape the geopolitical conditions of having a border with us, the only way to live safely is to abandon everything associated with us and leave us alone Kim warned.
These words were spoken on Wednesday during the “big” military parade closing the Labor Party congress – an event setting the directions of state policy for the next five years.
The article continues below the video
What conditions does Kim Jong Un set for the USA?
What does Kim Jong Un think about South Korea?
What are South Korea's reactions to Kim's words?
Who does North Korea want to strengthen relations with?
Will Pyongyang strengthen relations with the US?
The North Korean leader – according to the AFP agency – demonstrates self-confidence resulting from closer alliances with Moscow and Beijing. Military units fighting in Ukraine took part in the parade, highlighting Pyongyang's new status.
AFP estimates that Kim's words signal his willingness to negotiate directly with the administration of President Donald Trumpcompletely ignoring the president of South Korea. Li Ja Mjung, who despite tensions sought peaceful coexistence and offered help, which Kim described as “deceptive” actions.
President of South Korea Li Je Mjung referred to Kim's words, arguing that efforts should be continued to build trust and find common ground with the northern neighbor to ensure lasting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
— Long-established hostility (…) cannot be eliminated in one moment. We must continually strive for dialogue and cooperation to build trust. Then, structural peace and stability will finally prevail on the Korean Peninsula, Li said.
There is also growing media speculation about a possible meeting between Kim and Trump in China later this year. However, Pyongyang has to set a strict condition: the talks cannot concern denuclearization.
Relations on the Korean Peninsula remain tense. In 2024, Pyongyang amended its constitution to define South Korea. as an “enemy state”. The North has strengthened its alliance with Russia, sending thousands of troops to war with Ukraine. In the past, summits with Trump and Kim took place, including: in Hanoi in 2019, ended in failure due to lack of agreement on the lifting of sanctions.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
