Seoul: Recent statements by Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, suggest that North Korea believes it holds a strategic advantage in its nuclear diplomacy with the United States and inter-Korean relations. This assessment was reportedly shared by South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) with lawmakers.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the NIS conveyed its analysis of Kim Yo-jong's remarks, noting the North's enhanced nuclear capabilities and its strengthening military ties with Russia. This information was provided by Rep. Lee Seong-kweun of the main opposition People Power Party. Kim Yo-jong, who serves as vice department director of the ruling party's Central Committee, stated through North Korea's state media on Monday that Pyongyang would not engage in dialogue with Seoul, criticizing the South for its unwavering alliance with the U.S.
In a subsequent statement, she mentioned that while the personal relationship between the North Korean and U.S. leaders is "not bad," talks on denuclearizing Pyongyang are not on the table. "North Korea's recent statements stem from a sense of confidence that it finds itself in a much more favorable strategic environment, as its nuclear capabilities have developed and it has backing from Russia through its dispatch of troops (to Moscow)," Lee quoted the NIS as saying.
Despite this confidence, the NIS maintains that North Korea will not return to dialogue unless it is recognized as a nuclear-armed state. Additionally, Lee noted that there are currently no signs of any imminent or arranged talks.
Kim's statements followed comments from a White House official to Yonhap News Agency indicating that U.S. President Donald Trump remains open to engaging with the North Korean leader to work toward a "fully denuclearized" North Korea.