S. Korea’s Foreign Minister Pledges to Drive Peace on Korean Peninsula

(MENAFN) Media reports that South Korea's newly appointed nominee for foreign minister pledged Tuesday to prioritize peace efforts on the Korean Peninsula, with a strong focus on rekindling talks between Pyongyang and Washington.

Cho Hyun, tapped by President Lee Jae-myung on Monday to lead the country's diplomatic affairs, emphasized that fostering long-term stability in the region would be a cornerstone of Seoul’s foreign agenda.

"I believe that facilitating dialogue between North Korea and the United States to establish lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula is one of the top priorities of the Lee Jae-myung government's foreign and unification policy," he told reporters.

He further stated, "We will work closely with other government agencies in line with the president's vision to ensure there are no obstacles in advancing this goal."

His comments were in line with President Lee’s earlier declaration this month, where he committed to "stop the exhausting hostilities" and revive cooperation and dialogue between the two Koreas.

Addressing recent U.S. demands—including higher defense cost-sharing and tariff increases under President Donald Trump—Cho advocated for a composed and thoughtful response, aligning with Lee’s “pragmatic” diplomatic philosophy.

A seasoned diplomat with deep roots in multilateral negotiations and global trade, Cho previously held both first and second vice minister roles during Moon Jae-in’s presidency and served as South Korea’s ambassador to the United Nations from 2019 to 2022.

President Lee has consistently reiterated his intent to "stop the exhausting hostilities" and reinitiate inter-Korean engagement.

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