Trump reaffirms ties with Kim Jong-un; Seoul stresses denuclearization

Mr. Trump has referred to North Korea as a nuclear power again as he touted his ties with Kim Jong-un.

Our Kim Jung-sil covers his latest remarks and the response from South Korea's Unification Ministry.

U.S. President Donald Trump once again expressed confidence in his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

"I had a great relationship with Kim Jong-un, North Korea. If I wasn't elected, if Hillary got in, you would have had a nuclear war with North Korea."

Speaking to reporters in Washington on Thursday, Trump emphasized the importance of continuing dialogue, referring to North Korea as a "nuclear power," a recognition with significant diplomatic implications.

In response, a spokesperson from the South Korean Ministry of Unification reaffirmed the nation's unwavering commitment to North Korea's denuclearization.

"North Korea's denuclearization remains a steadfast principle upheld by South Korea, the U.S., and the international community. Our government will continue to strengthen close cooperation with the new U.S. administration to achieve this objective."

Trump also reflected on how his diplomatic efforts, including several meetings with Kim Jong-un during his first term, contributed to the success of the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea.

"The meeting caused the Olympics, which was in South Korea, to become a tremendous success. Nobody was buying tickets for the Olympics because they didn't want to be nuked. And I met (with Kim) and not only did the Olympics become successful, but North Korea participated in the Olympics."

However, the first U.S.-North Korea summit took place in June 2018, four months after the PyeongChang Winter Olympics concluded, in February.

While discussions about renewed dialogue continue, experts suggest that priorities like trade tariffs may delay progress.

Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.