Lee Jae-myung Warns of “Dangerous” Inter-Korean Crisis, Advocates for Pragmatic Diplomacy
South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung expressed grave concerns about escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula and outlined a strategy of pragmatic diplomacy during a recent trip to Africa and Turkey.
During an in-flight press conference aboard the 1st Air Force aircraft on November 23rd, while en route from South Africa to Ankara, Lee Jae-myung painted a stark picture of the current state of inter-Korean relations. He warned that the complete severance of communication lines between North and South Korea represents a “very dangerous situation,” noting that even hostile nations maintain emergency communication channels.
“No matter how hostile countries are, they always have an emergency communication network (hotline). However, all connection lines between North and South Korea have been cut off,” Lee stated. He further emphasized the precariousness of the situation, asserting, “It is the law of the world to shake hands with your left hand even when fighting with your right hand, but North and South Korea are completely disconnected. We have reached a situation where we do not know when an accidental conflict may occur.”
Lee also highlighted the lack of progress on humanitarian issues, specifically mentioning stalled efforts to repatriate elderly, long-term prisoners. “There is no response even to efforts to send back non-converted long-term prisoners over 90 years old, who do not know when they will pass away,” he said, referencing the case of Ahn Hak-seop, a 95-year-old prisoner seeking repatriation.
The opposition leader directly criticized the current Yoon Seok-yeol administration, accusing it of prioritizing political strategy over national interests in unification and security. He characterized the current situation as “karma,” suggesting that addressing the fallout requires significant and sustained effort. “In order to reduce that karma, we must invest more effort and more time than accumulated karma. We must constantly convey our good intentions to at least pierce the eye of a needle,” Lee explained, emphasizing the importance of consistent outreach even in the absence of immediate reciprocation.
Regarding potential de-escalation strategies, Lee acknowledged the sensitivity surrounding joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States. He suggested that a preemptive reduction or postponement of these exercises “could be a lever for changing the situation, or it could be a result (of improving inter-Korean relations).” However, he qualified this statement, adding that such a move would be more appropriate “once the peace system between South and North Korea is firmly established.”
Turning to regional dynamics, Lee addressed the escalating tensions between China and Japan, stating that South Korea should “observe the current situation calmly and do its best to maximize national interests without damaging them.” He explained that his recent meetings with both Chinese Premier Li Chang and Japanese counterparts during the G20 summit in South Africa were strategically designed to balance these competing interests.
Lee underscored a pragmatic approach to relations with major powers, acknowledging the importance of the ROK-US alliance while recognizing the necessity of maintaining ties with China. “In terms of military and security, we have no choice but to judge and act based on the ROK-US alliance, and we cannot sever ties with China in terms of geographical, historical, and economic relations,” he stated.
Finally, Lee highlighted positive developments stemming from recent diplomatic efforts in the Middle East and Africa. He noted the success of a pre-trip visit by Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in securing collaborative projects. He also expressed optimism regarding potential Korean involvement in the expansion of Cairo Airport, estimating the project’s value at 3 to 4 trillion won.
[Reporter Eom Ji-won, Ankara/hani.co.kr]
