Seoul: The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Kim Yo-jong, stated on Tuesday that personal ties between the leaders of North Korea and the United States are "not bad," while dismissing any possibility of discussions on denuclearizing Pyongyang.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Yo-jong, who holds the position of vice department director of the ruling party's Central Committee, made these remarks as U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his interest in reengaging with North Korea's leader. In a statement broadcasted by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), she acknowledged the "not bad" personal relationship between the leaders but dismissed its relevance to denuclearization, calling it a "mockery" if used for such purposes.
Her comments came after a White House official conveyed to Yonhap News Agency that President Trump remains open to engagement with North Korea to achieve a "fully denuclearized" Korean Peninsula. Despite expectations that Trump might attempt to revive his personal diplomacy with Kim, previous summits, including the 2019 Hanoi summit, failed to reach a consensus due to differing views on denuclearization and sanctions relief.
Kim Yo-jong highlighted that 2025 should not be equated with the years 2018 or 2019, urging the recognition of North Korea as a nuclear state. She emphasized that any denial of North Korea's nuclear status would be firmly rejected, advocating for a new approach by the U.S. based on fresh perspectives.
In response, South Korea's unification ministry reiterated its support for renewed dialogue between North Korea and the U.S. to address nuclear issues. A ministry official voiced support for the resumption of talks aimed at establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula and maintaining stability in Northeast Asia. Foreign ministry spokesperson Lee Jae-woong also stressed the shared objective of complete denuclearization, affirming close collaboration with Washington on North Korea policies.
Experts interpret North Korea's stance as firm against denuclearization talks, although Kim's comments suggest potential openness to discussions with the U.S. on other topics. Her statements follow a recent declaration via KCNA, refusing dialogue with Seoul and criticizing its adherence to the South Korea-U.S. alliance.
Amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, North Korea is strengthening its ties with Russia in defense and economic sectors, thereby facilitating Pyongyang's circumvention of international sanctions by relying on Russian resources.