Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Unification minister meets Thai envoy, urges ASEAN to support peace on Korean Peninsula
Unification Minister Chung Dong-young, right, shakes hands with Thai Ambassador to Korea Tanee Sangrat at Government Complex Seoul, Nov. 10. Courtesy of Ministry of Unification
By Kim Hyun-bin
Unification Minister Chung Dong-young met with Thai Ambassador to Korea Tanee Sangrat on Nov. 10, expressing hopes that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will play a larger role in promoting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).
During their meeting at Government Complex Seoul, Chung said that “peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia directly and indirectly affect ASEAN,” calling for Thailand and ASEAN’s active engagement in regional stability efforts.
Thailand currently serves as the ASEAN coordinator for dialogue with Korea and hosts the largest North Korean embassy among ASEAN member states.
Chung also noted that “relations between Thailand and North Korea appear to be developing,” citing the participation of ASEAN representatives in North Korea’s recent military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea.
“From North Korea’s perspective, ASEAN seems to play a significant role as a member of the international community,” Chung added.
Ambassador Sangrat responded by encouraging Seoul to “make effective use of the ARF in improving inter-Korean relations,” reaffirming Thailand’s continued support for peace on the Korean Peninsula.