Progress Made after Panmunjeom Summits
Table of Contents
I.
Overview
II. Post-Panmunjeom Declaration Assessments
04
08
III. Achievements by Sector
South and North Korean athletes march together under the Korean Unification Flag at the Opening Ceremony of the Jakarta-Palembang 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia.
http://english.president.go.kr http://twitter.com/TheBlueHouseENG http://www.korea.net
Publisher: CHEONG WA DAE Production : Korean Culture and Information Service Publication Date: September 15, 2018
03
1. Extensive and Sweeping Improvements and Progress in Inter-Korean Relations
11
2. Alleviation of Military Tension and Elimination of Risk of War
16
3. Denuclearization and Establishment of Peace Regime on Korean Peninsula
19
Table of Contents
I.
Overview
II. Post-Panmunjeom Declaration Assessments
04
08
III. Achievements by Sector
South and North Korean athletes march together under the Korean Unification Flag at the Opening Ceremony of the Jakarta-Palembang 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia.
http://english.president.go.kr http://twitter.com/TheBlueHouseENG http://www.korea.net
Publisher: CHEONG WA DAE Production : Korean Culture and Information Service Publication Date: September 15, 2018
03
1. Extensive and Sweeping Improvements and Progress in Inter-Korean Relations
11
2. Alleviation of Military Tension and Elimination of Risk of War
16
3. Denuclearization and Establishment of Peace Regime on Korean Peninsula
19
I. Overview Inter-Korean Dialogue and Exchanges Following Panmunjeom Declaration
Preparations underway to make upcoming inter-Korean summit catalyst for fully promoting peace and prosperity on Korean Peninsula A detailed schedule for the forthcoming inter-Korean summit will be set promptly as working-level meetings cover summit protocol and security services. Details include the main itinerary, the size
Fourth high-level inter-Korean talks held on August 13 to discuss schedule for inter-Korean summit in Pyeongyang and measures to implement Panmunjeom Declaration
of the delegations and a travel route. The Panmunjeom Declaration Implementation Committee
Officials from South and North Korea agreed to hold an inter-Korean summit in Pyeongyang
Faithful implementation of Panmunjeom Declaration to sustain development of inter-Korean relations
and other relevant ministries and agencies are working together to make thorough preparations.
within September. They consulted about the summit agenda and other preparations needed and formed a consensus regarding the necessity for working-level talks at the earliest possible date to discuss protocol, security services, media coverage and communications.
Reunions of families separated by the Korean War were successfully held August 20-26. Talks on the establishment of a joint liaison office and joint surveys on the railroad junctions and roads
In addition, the two sides took stock of progress in implementing the Panmunjeom Declaration
have proceeded as scheduled. In addition, representatives from both sides’ military engaged in
comprehensively and discussed ways to carry it out more proactively. They positively assessed
consultations to find ways to quickly ease military tensions.
the efforts of both sides to implement the Panmunjeom Declaration, including the holding of sector-specific working-level talks and the conducting of joint studies. Topics discussed in detail
Efforts have been enhanced to form a virtuous cycle between inter-Korean talks and North
included the establishment of a joint liaison office, preparations for reunions of separated families,
Korea-U.S. dialogue, thereby solidifying the process of bringing peace and prosperity to the Korean
the reconnection and modernization of railroads and roads, cooperation on reforestation, the
Peninsula.
alleviation of military tension, denuclearization and the establishment of a peace regime.
Liberation Day speech of President Moon Jae-in signaling start of bold steps in interest of improved inter-Korean relations
I will be visiting Pyeongyang next month bearing the wish of the people. We two leaders will confirm the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration and take an audacious step to proceed toward the declaration of an end to the Korean War and the signing of a peace treaty as well as the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Address on Korea’s 73rd Liberation Day, August 15, 2018
South Korea's Minister of Unification Cho Myoung-gyon (right) shakes hands with North Korea’s Chairman of the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Country Ri Son Gwon after high-level talks on August 13.
04
05
I. Overview Inter-Korean Dialogue and Exchanges Following Panmunjeom Declaration
Preparations underway to make upcoming inter-Korean summit catalyst for fully promoting peace and prosperity on Korean Peninsula A detailed schedule for the forthcoming inter-Korean summit will be set promptly as working-level meetings cover summit protocol and security services. Details include the main itinerary, the size
Fourth high-level inter-Korean talks held on August 13 to discuss schedule for inter-Korean summit in Pyeongyang and measures to implement Panmunjeom Declaration
of the delegations and a travel route. The Panmunjeom Declaration Implementation Committee
Officials from South and North Korea agreed to hold an inter-Korean summit in Pyeongyang
Faithful implementation of Panmunjeom Declaration to sustain development of inter-Korean relations
and other relevant ministries and agencies are working together to make thorough preparations.
within September. They consulted about the summit agenda and other preparations needed and formed a consensus regarding the necessity for working-level talks at the earliest possible date to discuss protocol, security services, media coverage and communications.
Reunions of families separated by the Korean War were successfully held August 20-26. Talks on the establishment of a joint liaison office and joint surveys on the railroad junctions and roads
In addition, the two sides took stock of progress in implementing the Panmunjeom Declaration
have proceeded as scheduled. In addition, representatives from both sides’ military engaged in
comprehensively and discussed ways to carry it out more proactively. They positively assessed
consultations to find ways to quickly ease military tensions.
the efforts of both sides to implement the Panmunjeom Declaration, including the holding of sector-specific working-level talks and the conducting of joint studies. Topics discussed in detail
Efforts have been enhanced to form a virtuous cycle between inter-Korean talks and North
included the establishment of a joint liaison office, preparations for reunions of separated families,
Korea-U.S. dialogue, thereby solidifying the process of bringing peace and prosperity to the Korean
the reconnection and modernization of railroads and roads, cooperation on reforestation, the
Peninsula.
alleviation of military tension, denuclearization and the establishment of a peace regime.
Liberation Day speech of President Moon Jae-in signaling start of bold steps in interest of improved inter-Korean relations
I will be visiting Pyeongyang next month bearing the wish of the people. We two leaders will confirm the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration and take an audacious step to proceed toward the declaration of an end to the Korean War and the signing of a peace treaty as well as the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Address on Korea’s 73rd Liberation Day, August 15, 2018
South Korea's Minister of Unification Cho Myoung-gyon (right) shakes hands with North Korea’s Chairman of the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Country Ri Son Gwon after high-level talks on August 13.
04
05
Briefing by Director of National Security Chung Eui-yong on the Outcome of the Special Envoys’ Visit to Pyeongyang on September 5
In Pyeongyang, we had extensive discussions
A master plan to draw up a new economic map for the Korean Peninsula will take concrete shape,
with the North Korean side on issues
reflecting what has been discussed between the two Koreas and the evolution of international
ranging from the development of inter-
relations. Also, North Korea’s denuclearization measures and improvements in North Korea-U.S.
Korean relations to denuclearization and the settlement of peace on the Korean Peninsula.
relations will be taken into account comprehensively.
After arriving in Pyeongyang in the morning, we had a meeting with Chairman Kim Jong Un of the State Affairs Commission and delivered
Moon, who has made improved ties with Pyongyang a key focus since taking office in May
President Moon Jae-in's letter. Afterward, we
2017, noted that the European Union first began as a coal and steel community and said that
had in-depth and wide-ranging discussions
improved economic ties would help push the peace process forward. “Peace and the economy
concerning various pending issues on interKorean relations, including the holding of an
are synonymous,” he said. USA Today, August 15, 2018
inter-Korean summit.
Cheong Wa Dae Director of National Security Chung Eui-yong (left), head of President Moon Jae-in’s special envoys, exchanges greetings with North Korea's Chairman of State Affairs Commission Kim Jong Un in Pyeongyang on September 5.
We also sat together with Vice Chairman of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea Kim Yong Chol and other high-ranking officials and
This can be seen both through Moon’s efforts to redefine South Korea’s fraught diplomatic
discussed concrete measures to put into action the will of the leaders of both Koreas.
relationship with Japan and for the insight the speech provides into Moon’s audacious First, the South and North agreed to hold an inter-Korean summit September 18-20, three days and two nights,
and potentially risky effort to redefine inter-Korean relations and reshape the geopolitical
in Pyeongyang and to hold a high-ranking working-level meeting at Panmunjeom early next week to discuss
landscape in Northeast Asia. Blog Post of Council on Foreign Relations, August 15, 2018
protocol, security, communications and media coverage as a part of preparations for the summit. We also came to an agreement to examine, during the upcoming inter-Korean summit, the outcome of the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration and confirm how to push for the Declaration going forward. The discussions at the summit will also be centered around issues on the permanent settlement of peace and common prosperity on the Korean Peninsula as well as, particularly, practical measures to realize denuclearization on the Peninsula. Second, Chairman Kim Jong Un reconfirmed his determination to completely denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and expressed his willingness for close cooperation not only with the South but also with the United States in that regard. Third, the two sides also agreed to continue to make progress in the ongoing inter-Korean talks to ease military tensions and decided to reach an agreement at the inter-Korean summit on concrete plans to establish mutual trust and prevent military clashes. Fourth, it was also agreed that South and North Korea would open a joint liaison office with resident representatives of both sides before the summit and continue necessary cooperation. We will brief the countries concerned, including the United States, with the results of the visit by the special envoys to the North and closely work together with them. South and North Korea will make additional substantive progress in further developing inter-Korean relations,
President Moon Jae-in delivers an address during the 73rd Liberation Day ceremony at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul on August 15.
denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula and settling peace by making consistent endeavors with patience going
06
07
forward.
Briefing by Director of National Security Chung Eui-yong on the Outcome of the Special Envoys’ Visit to Pyeongyang on September 5
In Pyeongyang, we had extensive discussions
A master plan to draw up a new economic map for the Korean Peninsula will take concrete shape,
with the North Korean side on issues
reflecting what has been discussed between the two Koreas and the evolution of international
ranging from the development of inter-
relations. Also, North Korea’s denuclearization measures and improvements in North Korea-U.S.
Korean relations to denuclearization and the settlement of peace on the Korean Peninsula.
relations will be taken into account comprehensively.
After arriving in Pyeongyang in the morning, we had a meeting with Chairman Kim Jong Un of the State Affairs Commission and delivered
Moon, who has made improved ties with Pyongyang a key focus since taking office in May
President Moon Jae-in's letter. Afterward, we
2017, noted that the European Union first began as a coal and steel community and said that
had in-depth and wide-ranging discussions
improved economic ties would help push the peace process forward. “Peace and the economy
concerning various pending issues on interKorean relations, including the holding of an
are synonymous,” he said. USA Today, August 15, 2018
inter-Korean summit.
Cheong Wa Dae Director of National Security Chung Eui-yong (left), head of President Moon Jae-in’s special envoys, exchanges greetings with North Korea's Chairman of State Affairs Commission Kim Jong Un in Pyeongyang on September 5.
We also sat together with Vice Chairman of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea Kim Yong Chol and other high-ranking officials and
This can be seen both through Moon’s efforts to redefine South Korea’s fraught diplomatic
discussed concrete measures to put into action the will of the leaders of both Koreas.
relationship with Japan and for the insight the speech provides into Moon’s audacious First, the South and North agreed to hold an inter-Korean summit September 18-20, three days and two nights,
and potentially risky effort to redefine inter-Korean relations and reshape the geopolitical
in Pyeongyang and to hold a high-ranking working-level meeting at Panmunjeom early next week to discuss
landscape in Northeast Asia. Blog Post of Council on Foreign Relations, August 15, 2018
protocol, security, communications and media coverage as a part of preparations for the summit. We also came to an agreement to examine, during the upcoming inter-Korean summit, the outcome of the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration and confirm how to push for the Declaration going forward. The discussions at the summit will also be centered around issues on the permanent settlement of peace and common prosperity on the Korean Peninsula as well as, particularly, practical measures to realize denuclearization on the Peninsula. Second, Chairman Kim Jong Un reconfirmed his determination to completely denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and expressed his willingness for close cooperation not only with the South but also with the United States in that regard. Third, the two sides also agreed to continue to make progress in the ongoing inter-Korean talks to ease military tensions and decided to reach an agreement at the inter-Korean summit on concrete plans to establish mutual trust and prevent military clashes. Fourth, it was also agreed that South and North Korea would open a joint liaison office with resident representatives of both sides before the summit and continue necessary cooperation. We will brief the countries concerned, including the United States, with the results of the visit by the special envoys to the North and closely work together with them. South and North Korea will make additional substantive progress in further developing inter-Korean relations,
President Moon Jae-in delivers an address during the 73rd Liberation Day ceremony at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul on August 15.
denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula and settling peace by making consistent endeavors with patience going
06
07
forward.
II. Post-Panmunjeom Declaration Assessments
Mutual trust and respect basis for new normalization of inter-Korean relations and more frequent talks The first inter-Korean summit in 11 years and the Panmunjeom Declaration have enabled interKorean relations to launch a new beginning, going beyond a simple restoration of ties.
Peace becoming part of everyday lives Since the turn of this year, inter-Korean relations have been progressively restored through In 2017, the Korean Peninsula saw recurring volatile crises caused by North Korea’s nuclear test
a series of events, including North Korean athletes’ participation in the PyeongChang Winter
and 15 ballistic missile launches, escalating the threat of war to a new height. The risk of accidental
Olympics, reciprocal visits by special envoys between the two Koreas and mutual visits and
confrontation persisted due to the lack of communication channels between the militaries of the
performances by South and North Korean art troupes. In the process of implementing the
two Koreas and those of the North and the United States.
Panmunjeom Declaration, high-level, sector-specific inter-Korean talks and meetings have been held and regularized, institutionalizing the framework for consultations between South and North Korea.
The April 27 Panmunjeom Declaration for Peace, Prosperity and Unification of the Korean Peninsula, however, culminated in agreement that the North would discuss the complete denuclearization of the Peninsula and establishment of a permanent and solid peace regime with
The leaders of the two Koreas have also established a relationship based on mutual trust to the
the South and the United States. It has made it possible for the Korean people to completely escape
extent that they can easily call and casually agree to meet on short notice. They went so far as to
the fear of war and for peace to become the norm. As a result, problems associated with the so-
skip cumbersome procedures and formalities to hold their second summit on May 26.
called “Korea discount” began to show signs of abating.
The spontaneous offer by Kim to meet, and Moon’s quick acceptance, showed how close the two leaders have become. The Guardian, May 27, 2018
Foreign investors are piling billions of dollars into South Korean bonds as the local currency stabilizes and tensions with North Korea appear to wind down. South Korea has turned out to be “the only bright spot” in the emerging debt market of Asia this year as more than $16 billion of foreign money has flown into it. Bloomberg, May 8, 2018
Both Koreas restoring sense of common identity naturally through experiences shared by residents in South and North This past year, North Korea has conducted no nuclear test or missile launch. The North took initial steps to remove the risk of war on the Korean Peninsula at its roots by dismantling its nuclear and
Inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation in various areas, for instance through the July 2018
missile test sites.
South-North unification basketball games and the forming of joint teams for the 2018 Asian Games (August 18-September 2), will help increase opportunities for South and North Koreans to meet
Moody’s Senior Credit Officer Christian de Guzman said on May 1 that if irreversible measures
and restore a sense of commonality.
facilitating inter-Korean reconciliation continued, it would have a positive impact on South Korea’s credit rating.
The two sides held reunions for families separated by the division of Korea for the first time in three years. The reunions may have helped heal the wounds of those who have lived with pain
The restoration of the suspended cross-border military hotline and talks between South and North
and sorrow, albeit in a small way.
Korean military authorities will help gradually build military trust and eliminate the possibility of an accidental clash. 08
09
II. Post-Panmunjeom Declaration Assessments
Mutual trust and respect basis for new normalization of inter-Korean relations and more frequent talks The first inter-Korean summit in 11 years and the Panmunjeom Declaration have enabled interKorean relations to launch a new beginning, going beyond a simple restoration of ties.
Peace becoming part of everyday lives Since the turn of this year, inter-Korean relations have been progressively restored through In 2017, the Korean Peninsula saw recurring volatile crises caused by North Korea’s nuclear test
a series of events, including North Korean athletes’ participation in the PyeongChang Winter
and 15 ballistic missile launches, escalating the threat of war to a new height. The risk of accidental
Olympics, reciprocal visits by special envoys between the two Koreas and mutual visits and
confrontation persisted due to the lack of communication channels between the militaries of the
performances by South and North Korean art troupes. In the process of implementing the
two Koreas and those of the North and the United States.
Panmunjeom Declaration, high-level, sector-specific inter-Korean talks and meetings have been held and regularized, institutionalizing the framework for consultations between South and North Korea.
The April 27 Panmunjeom Declaration for Peace, Prosperity and Unification of the Korean Peninsula, however, culminated in agreement that the North would discuss the complete denuclearization of the Peninsula and establishment of a permanent and solid peace regime with
The leaders of the two Koreas have also established a relationship based on mutual trust to the
the South and the United States. It has made it possible for the Korean people to completely escape
extent that they can easily call and casually agree to meet on short notice. They went so far as to
the fear of war and for peace to become the norm. As a result, problems associated with the so-
skip cumbersome procedures and formalities to hold their second summit on May 26.
called “Korea discount” began to show signs of abating.
The spontaneous offer by Kim to meet, and Moon’s quick acceptance, showed how close the two leaders have become. The Guardian, May 27, 2018
Foreign investors are piling billions of dollars into South Korean bonds as the local currency stabilizes and tensions with North Korea appear to wind down. South Korea has turned out to be “the only bright spot” in the emerging debt market of Asia this year as more than $16 billion of foreign money has flown into it. Bloomberg, May 8, 2018
Both Koreas restoring sense of common identity naturally through experiences shared by residents in South and North This past year, North Korea has conducted no nuclear test or missile launch. The North took initial steps to remove the risk of war on the Korean Peninsula at its roots by dismantling its nuclear and
Inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation in various areas, for instance through the July 2018
missile test sites.
South-North unification basketball games and the forming of joint teams for the 2018 Asian Games (August 18-September 2), will help increase opportunities for South and North Koreans to meet
Moody’s Senior Credit Officer Christian de Guzman said on May 1 that if irreversible measures
and restore a sense of commonality.
facilitating inter-Korean reconciliation continued, it would have a positive impact on South Korea’s credit rating.
The two sides held reunions for families separated by the division of Korea for the first time in three years. The reunions may have helped heal the wounds of those who have lived with pain
The restoration of the suspended cross-border military hotline and talks between South and North
and sorrow, albeit in a small way.
Korean military authorities will help gradually build military trust and eliminate the possibility of an accidental clash. 08
09
III. Achievements by Sector
More contact between North Korea and international community on all fronts With the Panmunjeom Declaration as a catalyst, the historic North Korea-United States summit was held and the Singapore joint statement adopted. Increasing opportunities for talks and
1. Extensive and Sweeping Improvements and Progress in Inter-Korean Relations
contacts between North Korea and many other countries will provide opportunities for the North to become a member of the international community.
Inter-Korean talks to be institutionalized
If anyone deserves credit for this achievement it is South Korean President Moon, whose fingerprints are all over the Trump-Kim statement…Bringing these two impulsive and
A framework of dialogue and consultation between the two Koreas has been institutionalized
headstrong leaders together was a remarkable achievement. Reuters, June 13, 2018
through regular high-level inter-Korean talks and meetings by sector: general-level military talks on June 14 and July 31; sports talks on June 18; inter-Korean Red Cross talks on June 22; and talks After months of rapprochement—including summit meetings between North Korean leader
on connecting railroads (June 26) and roads (June 28) as well as on reforestation (July 4).
Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in, and one between Mr. Kim and President Donald Trump—hopes are rising for more open access to North Korea, a country of 25 million
Agreement to establish joint liaison office
people with vast mineral reserves and lots of cheap labor. Wall Street Journal, July 23, 2018
During the inter-Korean summit on April 27, South and North Korea agreed to set up a joint liaison As North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un develops relationships with other nations through
office. A pre-inspection of the Gaeseong Industrial Complex was conducted on June 8, and from
summit diplomacy, global financial institutions have shown a willingness to help him grow
June 19 to 22, preparations for the establishment of the office and working-level consultations
North Korea’s economy. The International Monetary Fund, with a lending capacity of nearly
with the North were carried out. During the consultations, the two sides reached an agreement to
US$700 billion for its current 189 member countries, would “seek to be helpful” should North
renovate the existing Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Consultation Office for use as the
Korea want to join the institution, an IMF official told the South China Morning Post this week.
liaison office.
SCMP, July 13, 2018
The renovation began on July 2. Initially, construction workers commuted across the border, but from July 16, several relevant officials and workers have been living on site. As of August 14, The months following the Panmunjeom Declaration can be characterized as the start of a bold
electricity was available to a limited extent. Electric power is necessary for the comfort of the South
journey toward a new era of peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula. Going forward, efforts
Korean officials stationed there and the stable operation of the joint liaison office. Small generators
for peace and prosperity, including the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, the establishment
were the initial source of electricity, but they have proved inefficient and costly. To avoid concern
of a peace regime and the normalization of inter-Korean ties, will be institutionalized on the basis
over possible conflict with the sanctions imposed on the North, relevant countries are being
of cooperation with the international community and public consensus.
consulted closely and provided with information about progress at the site. The two Koreas have concluded discussions on a draft agreement on the composition and operation of the South-North joint liaison office. Mutual agreement was reached on its function, composition, operation and management, as well as guarantees regarding the staff’s activities and comfort, laying the groundwork for the office’s smooth operation. 10
11
III. Achievements by Sector
More contact between North Korea and international community on all fronts With the Panmunjeom Declaration as a catalyst, the historic North Korea-United States summit was held and the Singapore joint statement adopted. Increasing opportunities for talks and
1. Extensive and Sweeping Improvements and Progress in Inter-Korean Relations
contacts between North Korea and many other countries will provide opportunities for the North to become a member of the international community.
Inter-Korean talks to be institutionalized
If anyone deserves credit for this achievement it is South Korean President Moon, whose fingerprints are all over the Trump-Kim statement…Bringing these two impulsive and
A framework of dialogue and consultation between the two Koreas has been institutionalized
headstrong leaders together was a remarkable achievement. Reuters, June 13, 2018
through regular high-level inter-Korean talks and meetings by sector: general-level military talks on June 14 and July 31; sports talks on June 18; inter-Korean Red Cross talks on June 22; and talks After months of rapprochement—including summit meetings between North Korean leader
on connecting railroads (June 26) and roads (June 28) as well as on reforestation (July 4).
Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in, and one between Mr. Kim and President Donald Trump—hopes are rising for more open access to North Korea, a country of 25 million
Agreement to establish joint liaison office
people with vast mineral reserves and lots of cheap labor. Wall Street Journal, July 23, 2018
During the inter-Korean summit on April 27, South and North Korea agreed to set up a joint liaison As North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un develops relationships with other nations through
office. A pre-inspection of the Gaeseong Industrial Complex was conducted on June 8, and from
summit diplomacy, global financial institutions have shown a willingness to help him grow
June 19 to 22, preparations for the establishment of the office and working-level consultations
North Korea’s economy. The International Monetary Fund, with a lending capacity of nearly
with the North were carried out. During the consultations, the two sides reached an agreement to
US$700 billion for its current 189 member countries, would “seek to be helpful” should North
renovate the existing Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Consultation Office for use as the
Korea want to join the institution, an IMF official told the South China Morning Post this week.
liaison office.
SCMP, July 13, 2018
The renovation began on July 2. Initially, construction workers commuted across the border, but from July 16, several relevant officials and workers have been living on site. As of August 14, The months following the Panmunjeom Declaration can be characterized as the start of a bold
electricity was available to a limited extent. Electric power is necessary for the comfort of the South
journey toward a new era of peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula. Going forward, efforts
Korean officials stationed there and the stable operation of the joint liaison office. Small generators
for peace and prosperity, including the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, the establishment
were the initial source of electricity, but they have proved inefficient and costly. To avoid concern
of a peace regime and the normalization of inter-Korean ties, will be institutionalized on the basis
over possible conflict with the sanctions imposed on the North, relevant countries are being
of cooperation with the international community and public consensus.
consulted closely and provided with information about progress at the site. The two Koreas have concluded discussions on a draft agreement on the composition and operation of the South-North joint liaison office. Mutual agreement was reached on its function, composition, operation and management, as well as guarantees regarding the staff’s activities and comfort, laying the groundwork for the office’s smooth operation. 10
11
Expansion of nongovernmental exchanges Future Plans
A range of options have been discussed during visits to the North and inter-Korean meetings to
A South-North joint opening ceremony will be held in the spirit of both Koreas operating
increase civilian exchanges in various areas, including religion, nongovernmental organizations,
the office together, and efforts will be made to normalize its operation as early as possible.
media, and education. The discussions were specifically about restoring Yujeomsa Temple on
Details on the date of the opening ceremony as well as the type of events to be held and the
Geumgangsan Mountain, promoting exchanges between media organizations and folk painting
participants will be determined through consultations with the North.
associations in the two Koreas, and operating Pyongyang University of Science and Technology.
The opening of the joint liaison office will usher in an era in which the two Koreas can
Large-scale inter-Korean visits took place recently for such events as the workers' football match
communicate 24/7. Regular talks between authorities from both Koreas are intended to
and the International Youth Football Tournament. Sixty-four North Koreans visited the South
further upgrade the official framework for inter-Korean relations and make their stable
August 10-12 for the friendly football match between workers. A total of 151 South Koreans,
management easier.
including youth football players from places near the Demilitarized Zone such as Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi-do Province, and Gangwon-do Province, visited the North August 10-19 to participate in
The South and North will pursue turning the joint liaison office into a permanent mission
the International Youth Football Tournament. The tournament was held at the May Day Stadium
for both sides.
in Pyeongyang August 13-18. Some 220 athletes of eight teams from South and North Korea, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Russia and China took part in the event. Expansion of inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation is being sought through a joint excavation
Cooperation in sports
of Manwoldae Palace in Gaeseong, North Korea, and the resumption of a joint compilation of the Gyeoremal-keunsajeon, a grand dictionary of the Korean language, as well as efforts to have a North Korean art troupe perform in South Korea this autumn.
Vibrant inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation have revolved around the sports sector, including fielding joint inter-Korean teams and holding friendly matches between the athletes from the South and North. For instance, the South-North unification basketball games were held
Continuing efforts for shared prosperity on Korean Peninsula, including connection of railroads and roads
in Pyeongyang July 3-6; a joint inter-Korean table tennis team played in the 2018 Korea Open in Daejeon, South Korea July 17-22; and unified inter-Korean teams were formed and jointly trained in such events as canoeing, rowing and women’s basketball for the 2018 Asian Games. Athletes from the two Koreas also marched together in the Asian Games’ opening ceremony. In particular,
A joint feasibility study for connecting and modernizing railroads and roads, the main arteries
a South Korean military cargo plane flew through North Korean airspace for the first time to
between the South and North, is underway. Based on the findings from the study, concrete plans
transport South Korean athletes participating in the South-North unification basketball games in
will be drawn up.
Pyeongyang. For the reconnection of railroads, inter-Korean railroad cooperation talks were held on June 26. Joint surveys were conducted on the railway junctions of the Gyeongui (Munsan-Gaeseong) and Donghae (Jejin-Geumgangsan Mountain) lines on July 20 and 24, respectively, and studies on the northern sections of the railroads will be carried out jointly. To connect roads, inter-Korean road cooperation talks were held on June 28, and a joint on-site survey on the northern part of the roads between Gaeseong and Pyeongyang took place August 1320. The first meeting of a joint research team was held in Gaeseong on August 13, and another joint 12
13
on-site survey of Donghaeseon, the road from Goseong to Wonsan, will be pursued.
Expansion of nongovernmental exchanges Future Plans
A range of options have been discussed during visits to the North and inter-Korean meetings to
A South-North joint opening ceremony will be held in the spirit of both Koreas operating
increase civilian exchanges in various areas, including religion, nongovernmental organizations,
the office together, and efforts will be made to normalize its operation as early as possible.
media, and education. The discussions were specifically about restoring Yujeomsa Temple on
Details on the date of the opening ceremony as well as the type of events to be held and the
Geumgangsan Mountain, promoting exchanges between media organizations and folk painting
participants will be determined through consultations with the North.
associations in the two Koreas, and operating Pyongyang University of Science and Technology.
The opening of the joint liaison office will usher in an era in which the two Koreas can
Large-scale inter-Korean visits took place recently for such events as the workers' football match
communicate 24/7. Regular talks between authorities from both Koreas are intended to
and the International Youth Football Tournament. Sixty-four North Koreans visited the South
further upgrade the official framework for inter-Korean relations and make their stable
August 10-12 for the friendly football match between workers. A total of 151 South Koreans,
management easier.
including youth football players from places near the Demilitarized Zone such as Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi-do Province, and Gangwon-do Province, visited the North August 10-19 to participate in
The South and North will pursue turning the joint liaison office into a permanent mission
the International Youth Football Tournament. The tournament was held at the May Day Stadium
for both sides.
in Pyeongyang August 13-18. Some 220 athletes of eight teams from South and North Korea, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Russia and China took part in the event. Expansion of inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation is being sought through a joint excavation
Cooperation in sports
of Manwoldae Palace in Gaeseong, North Korea, and the resumption of a joint compilation of the Gyeoremal-keunsajeon, a grand dictionary of the Korean language, as well as efforts to have a North Korean art troupe perform in South Korea this autumn.
Vibrant inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation have revolved around the sports sector, including fielding joint inter-Korean teams and holding friendly matches between the athletes from the South and North. For instance, the South-North unification basketball games were held
Continuing efforts for shared prosperity on Korean Peninsula, including connection of railroads and roads
in Pyeongyang July 3-6; a joint inter-Korean table tennis team played in the 2018 Korea Open in Daejeon, South Korea July 17-22; and unified inter-Korean teams were formed and jointly trained in such events as canoeing, rowing and women’s basketball for the 2018 Asian Games. Athletes from the two Koreas also marched together in the Asian Games’ opening ceremony. In particular,
A joint feasibility study for connecting and modernizing railroads and roads, the main arteries
a South Korean military cargo plane flew through North Korean airspace for the first time to
between the South and North, is underway. Based on the findings from the study, concrete plans
transport South Korean athletes participating in the South-North unification basketball games in
will be drawn up.
Pyeongyang. For the reconnection of railroads, inter-Korean railroad cooperation talks were held on June 26. Joint surveys were conducted on the railway junctions of the Gyeongui (Munsan-Gaeseong) and Donghae (Jejin-Geumgangsan Mountain) lines on July 20 and 24, respectively, and studies on the northern sections of the railroads will be carried out jointly. To connect roads, inter-Korean road cooperation talks were held on June 28, and a joint on-site survey on the northern part of the roads between Gaeseong and Pyeongyang took place August 1320. The first meeting of a joint research team was held in Gaeseong on August 13, and another joint 12
13
on-site survey of Donghaeseon, the road from Goseong to Wonsan, will be pursued.
Cooperation on forestry
Pursuing fundamental solutions for separated families and other humanitarian issues
Cooperation on mountain reforestation and preservation in the North is another objective. Joint studies will be carried out for the modernization of sapling nurseries and cooperation on forestry.
Future inter-Korean Red Cross talks will focus in earnest on securing the following: official
A field survey of Geumgangsan Mountain for forest pest control was conducted on August 8.
confirmation of the fates of relatives, cross-border hometown visits, and year-round reunions. At the same time, programs to establish more frequent exchanges between separated families and to promote common understanding among the Korean people
Reunions of separated families to coincide with August 15 Liberation Day
will continue by inviting and consoling separated families, producing video messages and conducting DNA testing.
The two Koreas agreed at the inter-Korean Red Cross talks on June 22 to hold reunions between one hundred families from each side at the Geumgangsan Resort August 20-26. The reunions were held smoothly. Renovation of the facilities for the reunions started on July 9. Reunions of families separated by the Korean War have also resumed. A South-North Korea
North Korea organized the first round of reunions held August 20-22, while South Korea managed
joint liaison office, which is expected to develop into a permanent mission for both sides, will
the second round August 24-26. The itinerary on the first day included group reunions and a
be established for the first time going forward. This is very meaningful. In a few days, an era
welcoming dinner; followed by individual reunions, dinning in their private rooms and group
in which the two Koreas communicate with each other around the clock will commence.
reunions on the second day; with the final reunions, group lunch and farewell on the third day.
President Moon Jae-in's Address on Korea’s 73rd Liberation Day, August 15, 2018
On August 19 and 23, one day before the first and second round of the reunions, South Koreans gathered in Sokcho, Gangwon-do Province, attended a pre-departure class and underwent medical checkups before heading to the North.
Siblings long assumed dead and parents who were separated from their children have come face to face for the first time in more than six decades ... The reunions, the first in three years, are a symbol of the painful divisions that remain long after the end of the 1950-53 Korean war. Families embraced and many cried to the point of being unable to speak for several minutes. The Guardian, August 20, 2018
A total of 848 people, including separated family members, accompanying relatives, support staff and journalists traveled to the North. The first round involved 360 people: 197 separated family members and their relatives, 133 staff members and 30 journalists. The second round involved 488 people: 326 separated family members and their relatives, 132 staff members and 30 journalists. The first round consisted of 89 South Koreans meeting North Korean relatives identified at their behest, while the second round involved 81 North Koreans meeting South Korean relatives whom they had requested help finding.
14
15
Lee Geum-seom from the South (left) weeps as she is reunited with her son from the North, Ri Sang Chol, during the 21st reunions of war-separated families held at the Geumgangsan Mountain resort in North Korea on August 20.
Cooperation on forestry
Pursuing fundamental solutions for separated families and other humanitarian issues
Cooperation on mountain reforestation and preservation in the North is another objective. Joint studies will be carried out for the modernization of sapling nurseries and cooperation on forestry.
Future inter-Korean Red Cross talks will focus in earnest on securing the following: official
A field survey of Geumgangsan Mountain for forest pest control was conducted on August 8.
confirmation of the fates of relatives, cross-border hometown visits, and year-round reunions. At the same time, programs to establish more frequent exchanges between separated families and to promote common understanding among the Korean people
Reunions of separated families to coincide with August 15 Liberation Day
will continue by inviting and consoling separated families, producing video messages and conducting DNA testing.
The two Koreas agreed at the inter-Korean Red Cross talks on June 22 to hold reunions between one hundred families from each side at the Geumgangsan Resort August 20-26. The reunions were held smoothly. Renovation of the facilities for the reunions started on July 9. Reunions of families separated by the Korean War have also resumed. A South-North Korea
North Korea organized the first round of reunions held August 20-22, while South Korea managed
joint liaison office, which is expected to develop into a permanent mission for both sides, will
the second round August 24-26. The itinerary on the first day included group reunions and a
be established for the first time going forward. This is very meaningful. In a few days, an era
welcoming dinner; followed by individual reunions, dinning in their private rooms and group
in which the two Koreas communicate with each other around the clock will commence.
reunions on the second day; with the final reunions, group lunch and farewell on the third day.
President Moon Jae-in's Address on Korea’s 73rd Liberation Day, August 15, 2018
On August 19 and 23, one day before the first and second round of the reunions, South Koreans gathered in Sokcho, Gangwon-do Province, attended a pre-departure class and underwent medical checkups before heading to the North.
Siblings long assumed dead and parents who were separated from their children have come face to face for the first time in more than six decades ... The reunions, the first in three years, are a symbol of the painful divisions that remain long after the end of the 1950-53 Korean war. Families embraced and many cried to the point of being unable to speak for several minutes. The Guardian, August 20, 2018
A total of 848 people, including separated family members, accompanying relatives, support staff and journalists traveled to the North. The first round involved 360 people: 197 separated family members and their relatives, 133 staff members and 30 journalists. The second round involved 488 people: 326 separated family members and their relatives, 132 staff members and 30 journalists. The first round consisted of 89 South Koreans meeting North Korean relatives identified at their behest, while the second round involved 81 North Koreans meeting South Korean relatives whom they had requested help finding.
14
15
Lee Geum-seom from the South (left) weeps as she is reunited with her son from the North, Ri Sang Chol, during the 21st reunions of war-separated families held at the Geumgangsan Mountain resort in North Korea on August 20.
Two koreas' military authorities restoring communication channels to prevent accidental clashes
2. Alleviation of Military Tension and Elimination of Risk of War
After the Panmunjeom Declaration, regular communication channels between the military
Factors that could spark military clashes to be eliminated for war-free Korean Peninsula
authorities of the two Koreas were restored, primarily to prevent accidental clashes. Military communication lines in the West Sea were restored on July 16. Construction work for the restoration of military communication channels in the East Sea is completed.
Loudspeaker broadcasts toward the North were suspended preemptively on April 23 to create an amiable atmosphere for the inter-Korean summit. The two sides first decided to specify measures
Operation of a joint communication network between South and North Korean naval ships in
to eliminate the means of propaganda within the agreements related to military issues in the
the West Sea was normalized on July 1. Messages are now exchanged everyday via the standard
Panmunjeom Declaration. South-initiated propaganda activities were promptly ended on May 5, just
international communication radio frequency for merchant ships in order to prevent accidental
over 10 days from the date of the agreement, and North Korea quickly followed suit. The military
clashes in the West Sea, which was once likened to a sea of disputes.
authorities from both sides have continued to hold follow-up talks to come up with drastic measures to prevent military clashes, including the creation of a peace zone in the Demilitarized Zone. North and South Korea have fully restored a military communications hotline that connects the two Koreas on the Yellow Sea side, in another move aimed at easing military tension and North and South Korea began dismantling loudspeakers that blared propaganda across their
building trust across the heavily armed border ... The move to restore the hotline was made as
heavily fortified border on Tuesday, South Korea’s defense ministry said, fulfilling a promise
a follow-up to the agreement reached between the leaders of the two Koreas at their landmark
made at last week’s historic summit. The moves are the first practical, if small, steps toward
summit in late April, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean president
reconciliation after Friday’s meeting between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and the
Moon Jae-in said they agreed to end hostility and pursue denuclearisation of the peninsula.
North’s Kim Jong Un. Reuters, May 1, 2018
Financial Times, July 17, 2018
The Panmunjom Declaration assures the world that military action on the Korean peninsula will not happen anytime soon, and most likely never will. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un
Establishment of peace structure on Korean Peninsula sought through regular inter-Korean military talks
and South Korean President Moon Jae-in publicly declared their commitment to end the 60year conflict, resolve their differences peacefully, and avoid even the risks of provocation. The Diplomat, May 30, 2018
Military authorities from both sides have been working to build trust by holding inter-Korean military talks regularly and continuously at various levels following the Panmunjeom Declaration. General-level inter-Korean talks were held for the first time in 11 years. At the talks held on June 14 and July 31, the two sides discussed ways to implement the agreements in the Panmunjeom Declaration related to military issues. They also held a working-level meeting on June 25 to discuss the provision of supplies and equipment needed to reconnect military communication lines near the West and East coasts.
As a part of follow-up steps for the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration, the loudspeakers which were installed inside the civilian control line in Paju, Gyeonggi-do Province and blared anti-North Korean propaganda are removed on May 1.
16
17
Two koreas' military authorities restoring communication channels to prevent accidental clashes
2. Alleviation of Military Tension and Elimination of Risk of War
After the Panmunjeom Declaration, regular communication channels between the military
Factors that could spark military clashes to be eliminated for war-free Korean Peninsula
authorities of the two Koreas were restored, primarily to prevent accidental clashes. Military communication lines in the West Sea were restored on July 16. Construction work for the restoration of military communication channels in the East Sea is completed.
Loudspeaker broadcasts toward the North were suspended preemptively on April 23 to create an amiable atmosphere for the inter-Korean summit. The two sides first decided to specify measures
Operation of a joint communication network between South and North Korean naval ships in
to eliminate the means of propaganda within the agreements related to military issues in the
the West Sea was normalized on July 1. Messages are now exchanged everyday via the standard
Panmunjeom Declaration. South-initiated propaganda activities were promptly ended on May 5, just
international communication radio frequency for merchant ships in order to prevent accidental
over 10 days from the date of the agreement, and North Korea quickly followed suit. The military
clashes in the West Sea, which was once likened to a sea of disputes.
authorities from both sides have continued to hold follow-up talks to come up with drastic measures to prevent military clashes, including the creation of a peace zone in the Demilitarized Zone. North and South Korea have fully restored a military communications hotline that connects the two Koreas on the Yellow Sea side, in another move aimed at easing military tension and North and South Korea began dismantling loudspeakers that blared propaganda across their
building trust across the heavily armed border ... The move to restore the hotline was made as
heavily fortified border on Tuesday, South Korea’s defense ministry said, fulfilling a promise
a follow-up to the agreement reached between the leaders of the two Koreas at their landmark
made at last week’s historic summit. The moves are the first practical, if small, steps toward
summit in late April, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean president
reconciliation after Friday’s meeting between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and the
Moon Jae-in said they agreed to end hostility and pursue denuclearisation of the peninsula.
North’s Kim Jong Un. Reuters, May 1, 2018
Financial Times, July 17, 2018
The Panmunjom Declaration assures the world that military action on the Korean peninsula will not happen anytime soon, and most likely never will. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un
Establishment of peace structure on Korean Peninsula sought through regular inter-Korean military talks
and South Korean President Moon Jae-in publicly declared their commitment to end the 60year conflict, resolve their differences peacefully, and avoid even the risks of provocation. The Diplomat, May 30, 2018
Military authorities from both sides have been working to build trust by holding inter-Korean military talks regularly and continuously at various levels following the Panmunjeom Declaration. General-level inter-Korean talks were held for the first time in 11 years. At the talks held on June 14 and July 31, the two sides discussed ways to implement the agreements in the Panmunjeom Declaration related to military issues. They also held a working-level meeting on June 25 to discuss the provision of supplies and equipment needed to reconnect military communication lines near the West and East coasts.
As a part of follow-up steps for the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration, the loudspeakers which were installed inside the civilian control line in Paju, Gyeonggi-do Province and blared anti-North Korean propaganda are removed on May 1.
16
17
The establishment of trust, including through the transformation of the Demilitarized Zone into
3. Denuclearization and Establishment of Peace Regime on Korean Peninsula
a peace zone, is being sought with a view to creating a friendly atmosphere for denuclearization. A decision was made through close consultations between South Korea and the United States to suspend the Ulchi-Freedom Guardian joint military exercise originally scheduled in August to give a boost to talks among the two Koreas and the United States, which is aimed at denuclearizing the
North Korea-U.S. relations: from distrust and confrontation to cooperation for denuclearization of Peninsula
Korean Peninsula and establishing peace.
Following the announcement of the Panmunjeom Declaration, both Koreas and the United States
According to research by a state-run organization, the impact from inter-Korean economic cooperation is estimated to reach 170 trillion won at a minimum over the next 30 years. This
have begun discussions in earnest to establish peace on a denuclearized Korean Peninsula.
outcome stems from the combined effects of reconnected inter-Korean railroads and certain
With the North Korea-U.S. summit in Singapore and the adoption of the Joint Statement on June 12
natural resource development projects in addition to the resumption of the operation of the
as a catalyst, the two sides embarked on trust building efforts for denuclearization and peace on
Gaeseong Industrial Complex and Geumgangsan tours. When the two Koreas undertake full
the Korean Peninsula. For its part, North Korea turned pledges into actions as part of the efforts to
economic cooperation, the result will be incomparably greater.
achieve a complete denuclearization by dismantling its nuclear test site in Punggye-ri on May 24
President Moon Jae-in's Address on Korea’s 73rd Liberation Day, August 15, 2018
and a missile test facility at its Sohae Satellite Launching Station in July. Pending humanitarian issues between the two sides were also resolved: North Korea released three American detainees on May 9 and, on July 27, repatriated the remains of U.S. soldiers killed in the Korean War.
The return of the remains, brought to a US base in South Korea, is the latest move in the cautious diplomacy between Washington and Pyongyang ... Friday's repatriation will likely be seen as a concrete goodwill gesture after years of efforts by relatives and US authorities to retrieve the remains. BBC, July 27, 2018
A joint South-North Korean railroad research team surveys a section of the Gyeongui line in the North on July 24.
18
19
Soldiers salute during a ceremony marking the repatriation to the United States of 55 sets of remains of U.S. troops killed during the Korean War in a hangar at the Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do Province on August 1.
The establishment of trust, including through the transformation of the Demilitarized Zone into
3. Denuclearization and Establishment of Peace Regime on Korean Peninsula
a peace zone, is being sought with a view to creating a friendly atmosphere for denuclearization. A decision was made through close consultations between South Korea and the United States to suspend the Ulchi-Freedom Guardian joint military exercise originally scheduled in August to give a boost to talks among the two Koreas and the United States, which is aimed at denuclearizing the
North Korea-U.S. relations: from distrust and confrontation to cooperation for denuclearization of Peninsula
Korean Peninsula and establishing peace.
Following the announcement of the Panmunjeom Declaration, both Koreas and the United States
According to research by a state-run organization, the impact from inter-Korean economic cooperation is estimated to reach 170 trillion won at a minimum over the next 30 years. This
have begun discussions in earnest to establish peace on a denuclearized Korean Peninsula.
outcome stems from the combined effects of reconnected inter-Korean railroads and certain
With the North Korea-U.S. summit in Singapore and the adoption of the Joint Statement on June 12
natural resource development projects in addition to the resumption of the operation of the
as a catalyst, the two sides embarked on trust building efforts for denuclearization and peace on
Gaeseong Industrial Complex and Geumgangsan tours. When the two Koreas undertake full
the Korean Peninsula. For its part, North Korea turned pledges into actions as part of the efforts to
economic cooperation, the result will be incomparably greater.
achieve a complete denuclearization by dismantling its nuclear test site in Punggye-ri on May 24
President Moon Jae-in's Address on Korea’s 73rd Liberation Day, August 15, 2018
and a missile test facility at its Sohae Satellite Launching Station in July. Pending humanitarian issues between the two sides were also resolved: North Korea released three American detainees on May 9 and, on July 27, repatriated the remains of U.S. soldiers killed in the Korean War.
The return of the remains, brought to a US base in South Korea, is the latest move in the cautious diplomacy between Washington and Pyongyang ... Friday's repatriation will likely be seen as a concrete goodwill gesture after years of efforts by relatives and US authorities to retrieve the remains. BBC, July 27, 2018
A joint South-North Korean railroad research team surveys a section of the Gyeongui line in the North on July 24.
18
19
Soldiers salute during a ceremony marking the repatriation to the United States of 55 sets of remains of U.S. troops killed during the Korean War in a hangar at the Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do Province on August 1.
Follow-Up Steps for the Implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration
Washington considers the return of the remains an important good-will gesture as it considers improving ties with North Korea should it denuclearize. The New York Times, July 27, 2018
2018
North Korea and the United States now engaging in various exchanges and consultations to resolve North Korean nuclear issue and establish peace Chairman Kim Jong Un of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea and U.S. President Donald Trump have exchanged personal letters, and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Kim Yong Chol, Vice Chairman of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, paid reciprocal visits
June 1
High-level inter-Korean talks for the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration
were held at Peace House.
June 12
The U.S.-North Korea Summit was held on Sentosa Island, Singapore.
June 14
Inter-Korean general-level military talks were held at Tongilgak.
June 18
Inter-Korean talks for sports exchanges were held at Peace House.
June 22
Inter-Korean Red Cross talks were held at Geumgangsan Mountain.
June 26 The two Koreas held talks at Peace House on connecting and modernizing
to each other's country. High-level and working-level discussions followed. As such, the two sides
are now striving to build mutual trust through various exchanges and discussions.
June 28
inter-Korean railroads. The two Koreas held talks at Tongilgak on connecting cross-border roads.
July 3-6 The two Koreas held South-North unification basketball games in Pyeongyang.
The two heads of state discussed pending issues by exchanging personal letters whenever
July 4
Talks for inter-Korean forestry cooperation were held at Peace House.
necessary. They have stopped slandering each other with extreme and provocative words and
July 15
Twenty-five North Korean table tennis players visited South Korea to form a unified team with
have now entered a phase of mutual respect.
the South to compete in the Seamaster 2018 ITTF World Tour Platinum, Shinhan Korea Open.
July 16
The inter-Korean military communication line on the West Sea was completely restored.
July 19
The third meeting of the Committee for the Implementation of the Panmunjeom
Declaration was held.
Pivotal efforts underway for lasting peace
July 20
The two Koreas conducted a joint survey of the North Korean section of the Donghae
Improvements in inter-Korean relations have spearheaded progress in North Korea-U.S. relations
Railroad Line and held working-level talks.
and denuclearization efforts, forming a virtuous cycle. Efforts are being exerted to make progress
July 24
The two Koreas conducted a joint survey of the North Korean section of the Gyeongui
in relations between North Korea and the United States, denuclearization and the establishment
of a peace regime. Countries concerned are engaged in close consultations to try and declare,
July 27
within this year, an official end to the Korean War, which was halted in 1953 through an armistice
July 29
agreement.
to compete in the Jakarta-Palembang 2018 Asian Games.
July 31
The ninth inter-Korean general-level military talks were held at Peace House in Panmunjeom.
Railroad Line and held the first meeting of the joint research team. The remains of 55 U.S. soldiers killed during the Korean War were repatriated from Wonsan.
Thirty-four North Korean athletes visited South Korea to form unified teams with the South
August 8
The joint inter-Korean forest disease and pest control team conducted an on-site survey.
“This is a great start and should be cause for cautious optimism,” said [Patrick] McEachern,
August 9
The second meeting of the joint inter-Korean railroad research team was held at the Inter-
who worked on North Korea in the State Department. “The public conversation should now
shift from speculation on whether North Korea would consider denuclearization to how South
August 11
South and North Korean workers held a friendly soccer match to promote the implementation
Korea and the United States can advance this denuclearization pledge in concrete steps.”
of the Panmunjeom Declaration.
The Washington Post, April 27, 2018
August 13
The fourth high-level inter-Korean talks were held.
August 15
President Moon Jae-in gave a congratulatory speech in celebration of Liberation Day.
August 20
Cross-border reunions of families separated in South and North Korea were held at
20
Korean Transit Office on the Gyeongui Railroad Line.
-26
Geumgangsan Mountain in celebration of Liberation Day.
Follow-Up Steps for the Implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration
Washington considers the return of the remains an important good-will gesture as it considers improving ties with North Korea should it denuclearize. The New York Times, July 27, 2018
2018
North Korea and the United States now engaging in various exchanges and consultations to resolve North Korean nuclear issue and establish peace Chairman Kim Jong Un of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea and U.S. President Donald Trump have exchanged personal letters, and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Kim Yong Chol, Vice Chairman of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, paid reciprocal visits
June 1
High-level inter-Korean talks for the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration
were held at Peace House.
June 12
The U.S.-North Korea Summit was held on Sentosa Island, Singapore.
June 14
Inter-Korean general-level military talks were held at Tongilgak.
June 18
Inter-Korean talks for sports exchanges were held at Peace House.
June 22
Inter-Korean Red Cross talks were held at Geumgangsan Mountain.
June 26 The two Koreas held talks at Peace House on connecting and modernizing
to each other's country. High-level and working-level discussions followed. As such, the two sides
are now striving to build mutual trust through various exchanges and discussions.
June 28
inter-Korean railroads. The two Koreas held talks at Tongilgak on connecting cross-border roads.
July 3-6 The two Koreas held South-North unification basketball games in Pyeongyang.
The two heads of state discussed pending issues by exchanging personal letters whenever
July 4
Talks for inter-Korean forestry cooperation were held at Peace House.
necessary. They have stopped slandering each other with extreme and provocative words and
July 15
Twenty-five North Korean table tennis players visited South Korea to form a unified team with
have now entered a phase of mutual respect.
the South to compete in the Seamaster 2018 ITTF World Tour Platinum, Shinhan Korea Open.
July 16
The inter-Korean military communication line on the West Sea was completely restored.
July 19
The third meeting of the Committee for the Implementation of the Panmunjeom
Declaration was held.
Pivotal efforts underway for lasting peace
July 20
The two Koreas conducted a joint survey of the North Korean section of the Donghae
Improvements in inter-Korean relations have spearheaded progress in North Korea-U.S. relations
Railroad Line and held working-level talks.
and denuclearization efforts, forming a virtuous cycle. Efforts are being exerted to make progress
July 24
The two Koreas conducted a joint survey of the North Korean section of the Gyeongui
in relations between North Korea and the United States, denuclearization and the establishment
of a peace regime. Countries concerned are engaged in close consultations to try and declare,
July 27
within this year, an official end to the Korean War, which was halted in 1953 through an armistice
July 29
agreement.
to compete in the Jakarta-Palembang 2018 Asian Games.
July 31
The ninth inter-Korean general-level military talks were held at Peace House in Panmunjeom.
Railroad Line and held the first meeting of the joint research team. The remains of 55 U.S. soldiers killed during the Korean War were repatriated from Wonsan.
Thirty-four North Korean athletes visited South Korea to form unified teams with the South
August 8
The joint inter-Korean forest disease and pest control team conducted an on-site survey.
“This is a great start and should be cause for cautious optimism,” said [Patrick] McEachern,
August 9
The second meeting of the joint inter-Korean railroad research team was held at the Inter-
who worked on North Korea in the State Department. “The public conversation should now
shift from speculation on whether North Korea would consider denuclearization to how South
August 11
South and North Korean workers held a friendly soccer match to promote the implementation
Korea and the United States can advance this denuclearization pledge in concrete steps.”
of the Panmunjeom Declaration.
The Washington Post, April 27, 2018
August 13
The fourth high-level inter-Korean talks were held.
August 15
President Moon Jae-in gave a congratulatory speech in celebration of Liberation Day.
August 20
Cross-border reunions of families separated in South and North Korea were held at
20
Korean Transit Office on the Gyeongui Railroad Line.
-26
Geumgangsan Mountain in celebration of Liberation Day.
is the Economy I will be visiting Pyeongyang next month bearing the wish of the people. We two leaders will confirm the implementation of the Panmunjeom Declaration and take an audacious step to proceed toward the declaration of an end to the Korean War and the signing of a peace treaty as well as the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. I believe in the importance of recognition that we are the protagonists in Korean Peninsula-related issues. Developments in inter-Korean relations are not the by-effects of progress in the relationship between the North and the United States. Rather, advancement in inter-Korean relations is the driving force behind denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. This is borne out by history: when inter-Korean relations were good in the past, North Korea’s nuclear threat was eased and a denuclearization agreement was reached. When peace is established on the Korean Peninsula along with complete denuclearization, economic cooperation can be carried out in earnest. When the dreams of a peace-based economy and economic community are realized, our economy can take a new leap forward. The day when all Korean people are prosperous together will also be advanced.
President Moon Jae-in's Address on Korea’s 73rd Liberation Day, August 15, 2018