President calls for dialogue with N. Korea, more summit diplomacy

President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a press conference at Cheong Wa Dae's state reception hall in Seoul, Thursday, marking his first 30 days in office. Joint Press Corps

President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the need to improve inter-Korean relations through dialogue and close cooperation with the United States, warning that a complete severance of communication with North Korea would be a “foolish act.”

Speaking at a press conference marking his first 30 days in office on Thursday at the Yeongbingwan, or state reception hall of Cheong Wa Dae, Lee underscored the importance of fostering peace on the Korean Peninsula through sustained engagement with Pyongyang.

“Dialogue, communication and cooperation are absolutely essential,” he told reporters. “Even during times of war, diplomacy continues. We must be willing to listen, even if we dislike the other party.”

The liberal president’s remarks come as inter-Korean relations have been at their worst in recent years due to the hardline stance pushed by his conservative predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol.

Lee also pointed to a recent response from North Korea regarding propaganda loudspeaker broadcasts as an encouraging sign. The South halted broadcasting toward the North on June 11, and the North suspended its own the next day.

“When we decided to suspend all anti-North Korea loudspeaker broadcasts near the border, I was genuinely concerned that there might be no response at all,” he said. “But their reaction came swiftly — sooner and more positively than expected.”

While reiterating South Korea’s constitutional commitment to peaceful reunification, Lee noted that openly calling for unification at this time could be misinterpreted by the North as a demand for submission or absorption.

“That may be why some are proposing a name change for the unification ministry,” Lee said, adding, “No nation would want to be forcefully absorbed.”

Lee emphasized the need for sustained, long-term engagement with North Korea, adding that he has discussed the issue already with the Office of National Security and the National Intelligence Service. “I will share the outcomes when the time is right.”

President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a press conference at Cheong Wa Dae's state reception hall in Seoul, Thursday, marking his first 30 days in office. Joint Press Corps

As to the ongoing tariff negotiations with the U.S., Lee stressed the need for mutually beneficial outcomes, while carefully avoiding mentioning specifics that could affect the negotiations.

“The (tariff) negotiations are clearly very challenging, and I cannot confidently say whether we will be able to conclude talks by the July 8 deadline,” Lee said. “We must achieve a reciprocal result that benefits both sides, but neither party has clearly defined their exact demands yet.”

When asked about bilateral summits with major countries including the U.S. and Japan, Lee expressed his hope to meet the leaders as often as possible.

“Whether it’s the Korea-U.S. summit, Korea-Japan talks, or Korea-China meetings, we intend to meet frequently whenever possible,” he noted.

The president also highlighted the efficiency of combining high-level diplomacy with engagement involving economic sectors and businesses.

“South Korea’s economic growth has largely depended on trade and international exchanges ... We must diversify markets, and diplomatic capabilities are extremely important,” he said.

Lee said that from his experience as mayor of Seongnam, working together with business leaders on overseas exchange projects can prove to be efficient.

“As a recognized key player in the international community, South Korea must pay special attention to diplomacy, broaden its diplomatic base and expand opportunities. This will greatly aid our companies in exporting goods, services and culture abroad. We plan to meet frequently and in various ways,” he stated.

President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a press conference at Cheong Wa Dae' state reception hall in Seoul, Thursday, marking his first 30 days in office. Joint Press Corps

Regarding a question about relations with Japan, he underscored the shared strategic and security environment with Tokyo, calling for a pragmatic approach that separates historical disputes from present-day cooperation.

Lee also revealed that he was the one who proposed restoring shuttle diplomacy during his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Canada last month.

“I initiated the idea of reviving shuttle diplomacy. Instead of letting things get bogged down in bureaucracy, we should meet frequently, reduce misunderstandings and cooperate where possible,” he said.

Reporters raise their hands to ask President Lee Jae Myung questions during a press conference at Cheong Wa Dae's state reception hall in Seoul, Thursday. Joint Press Corps

Aiming for inclusive governance

On the issues of domestic politics and personnel matters, Lee reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, emphasizing that individuals should not be excluded from public service or policy discussions solely due to their political views or affiliations.

“Unless someone is unqualified, corrupt, incompetent or self-serving, it is wrong to dismiss them based on their political leanings, associations or personal ties,” Lee stated. “If we begin disqualifying people on such ambiguous grounds, there will be no one left to work with. That kind of mindset risks turning into political retribution.”

His comment reflects criticism from some sectors about his retaining of Agriculture Minister Song Mi-ryeong, who was appointed by former President Yoon, and the appointments of some other figures who are known to be close with Yoon, as presidential aides.

He stressed the importance of engaging with the opposition and said he would accept criticisms that are valid and constructive.

“If there are reasonable concerns backed by evidence, I will accept and act on them. I intend to keep the conversation going,” he said. “I’ve never believed in building walls or drawing lines that limit possibilities. Whether in my personal mission or public service, I’ve always thought such divisions are unproductive.”

Reporters raise their hands to ask President Lee Jae Myung questions during a press conference at Cheong Wa Dae's state reception hall in Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap

When asked about the concerns over a potential weakening of institutional checks and balances following his inauguration, particularly in light of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea holding a legislative majority, Lee pointed out that the current political alignment was the result of voters’ decisions, not a structural flaw.

“Electing someone from a majority party in the National Assembly as president is the choice of the people. It’s not appropriate to treat it as a problem in itself,” the president noted.

He added the current political alignment could be changed in future elections by voters, as the nation holds local elections next year and general elections in 2028. “This is how democracy works — voters reassess their decisions every few years.”

He also said he ordered the appointment of a special inspector, who is to provide independent oversight of presidential aides and close associates.

“Power must be held in check. Even for the sake of the president’s own integrity, it is better to be monitored,” the president said.