Seoul: The South Korean government announced its continued commitment to pushing for North Korea's denuclearization following U.S. President Donald Trump's recent comments referring to North Korea as a "nuclear power." Trump made these remarks to reporters after his swearing-in ceremony in Washington, highlighting his previous rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Seoul's defense ministry responded to Trump's comments by affirming its dedication to the denuclearization of North Korea. The ministry emphasized its intention to collaborate closely with the international community to achieve this objective. Jeon Ha-kyou, spokesperson for the ministry, stated in a regular briefing that denuclearization is essential for ensuring permanent peace and stability not only on the Korean Peninsula but worldwide.
Additionally, an official from Seoul's unification ministry, responsible for inter-Korean relations, confirmed that both South Korea and the United States have maintained a unified stance on the denuclearization of North Korea. The official assured reporters that the South Korean government plans to establish a close cooperative system with the new U.S. administration to further this goal.
These developments follow remarks by Trump's Defense Secretary nominee, Pete Hegseth, who also referred to North Korea as a "nuclear power" in written responses to the Senate Armed Services Committee prior to his confirmation hearing. Historically, U.S. officials have been cautious about labeling Pyongyang a nuclear power, fearing it could be seen as legitimizing what they consider an unlawful weapons program.