Lee Announces Plan to Reopen Inter‑Korean Channels President Lee Jae Myung unveiled a proposal on Dec 2, 2025 to restore communication lines that have been dormant since 2018, presenting it as the first step toward peaceful coexistence between Seoul and Pyongyang[1]. The announcement coincided with the inauguration of the 22nd Peaceful Unification Advisory Council at KINTEX in Goyang, emphasizing that unification is inevitable but should proceed gradually[1]. Lee framed the initiative as a confidence‑building measure to reduce hostility and lay groundwork for broader engagement[2].

Policy Shifts Emphasize Reconciliation Over Aggression Since taking office in June, Lee’s administration has halted border loudspeaker broadcasts and urged civic groups to cease anti‑Pyongyang leaflet campaigns, signaling a move away from overt pressure tactics[2]. These steps aim to create a less antagonistic environment conducive to dialogue, reinforcing the president’s claim that South Korea seeks peaceful coexistence rather than absorption[2]. The policy adjustments complement the council’s advisory role in guiding a new inter‑Korean relationship[2].

Cooperation Targets Climate, Disaster, Health, and Security Lee highlighted shared‑growth areas such as climate change mitigation, disaster response, public health, and safety as initial cooperation fields, arguing they benefit both Koreas[1]. He also pledged active measures to lower tensions along the Military Demarcation Line, aiming to prevent accidental clashes despite South Korea’s status as a top‑five military power allied with the United States[1]. These proposals seek to build trust through practical, non‑political collaboration before tackling more sensitive political issues[1].

North Korea Yet to Respond, Uncertainty Remains Both articles note that Pyongyang has not answered recent overtures, including a month‑old proposal for MDL talks, leaving the outlook for resumed dialogue ambiguous[1][2]. The lack of response underscores the tentative nature of the initiative and the challenge of converting diplomatic gestures into concrete engagement[2].