Kim Yo-jong, the vice director of the Workers’ Party’s Propaganda and Agitation Department, dismissed the South Korean government’s efforts to ease tensions following President Lee Jae-myung’s inauguration. On August 14, she stated, “We don’t care if South Korea dismantles loudspeakers, halts broadcasts, or modifies exercises,” showing an antagonistic stance.
In a statement titled “Seoul’s Hope is a Foolish Dream,” published through the Korean Central News Agency, Kim criticized President Lee’s comment that North Korea was also dismantling some loudspeakers, calling it groundless speculation and a manipulation of public opinion. She emphasized that North Korea neither dismantled border loudspeakers nor intended to, reaffirming that the South’s perception was incorrect.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff previously stated on August 9 that North Korea had dismantled a few of its loudspeakers reciprocating South Korea’s actions, although only a fraction of the 40 North Korean loudspeakers were reportedly removed.
Kim further elaborated that North Korea’s stance on South Korea, viewed as a persistent security threat, must remain clear. She insisted that South Korea should be permanently regarded as the most hostile force according to their national laws.
Additionally, she criticized the new South Korean government’s attempts to undo unilateral measures imposed during the Yoon Seok-yeol administration, dismissing them as futile efforts to receive recognition from other parties.
Regarding relations with the U.S., she reiterated North Korea’s established position of having no intention to improve relations with South Korea, an aide to the U.S., stating that this stance would be enshrined in their constitution.
Furthermore, she dismissed adjustments to the upcoming joint “Ulchi Freedom Shield” exercises between South Korea and the U.S., beginning on the 18th, as futile efforts not worthy of commendation.
On potential North Korea-U.S. dialogue, Kim dismissed any hopeful speculation tied to the Trump-Putin summit on the 15th, citing a lack of interest in resuming talks based on outdated ideas and viewing any potential meeting as only a U.S. “hope.”
Experts note Kim’s statement as significant since it provides North Korea’s first detailed stance towards South Korea under the new administration, suggesting a calculated effort to increase leverage by detailing their disinterest publicly.
Professor Ban Gil-joo of the Korea National Diplomatic Academy indicated that North Korea aims to retain initiative over inter-Korean and U.S.-North Korean dialogues, utilizing diplomatic tactics leveraged by their advantageous partnerships with Russia and China.
Professor Ban also pointed out that despite external engagements, Kim Yo-jong’s presence and influence within North Korea remain strong, as illustrated by her handling of issues concerning both South Korea and the U.S. in her statement.