Seoul: Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, announced Monday that Kim Jong-un praised South Korean President Lee Jae Myung as "frank and broad-minded" following Lee's expression of regret over unauthorized drone flights into North Korean territory.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee had earlier expressed regret over the incident during a Cabinet meeting. He stated, "Although this was not an act by our government, I express regret to the North Korean side over the unnecessary military tension caused by such reckless behavior." This statement was met with approval from the North, as Kim Yo-jong released a statement through the North's state media, acknowledging Pyongyang's appreciation for what they considered "very fortunate and wise behavior."

The statement further conveyed that the North Korean head of state viewed President Lee's actions as reflective of "a frank and broad-minded man's attitude." However, Kim Yo-jong also issued a stern warning to Seoul, urging them to "stop any reckless provocation" against Pyongyang and to "refrain from any attempt at contact, instead of paying lip-service to the utmost importance of peace and security."

In response, Cheong Wa Dae expressed hope that the swift inter-Korean exchange of views would contribute to peace on the Korean Peninsula. The South Korean government emphasized its commitment to working toward peaceful coexistence, underscoring the importance of maintaining open channels of communication and dialogue.