Hanoi:<Text>

South Korea and the United States are engaged in close communication to address misunderstandings following the public disclosure by South Korean Unification Minister Chung Dong-young of a North Korean nuclear facility. This comes amid speculation that the U.S. may have partially suspended intelligence sharing with South Korea over the issue.

According to Yonhap News Agency, National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac commented on the situation following media reports suggesting that Washington had taken steps to limit intelligence sharing in response to Chung's statements regarding a uranium enrichment facility in Kusong, North Korea. These remarks were made during a parliamentary session last month.

"We are actively communicating with the U.S. over this issue," Wi stated in Hanoi during President Lee Jae Myung's visit to Vietnam. He emphasized that both nations are working diligently to resolve the situation. Wi highlighted "some differences in perce ption" between the allies, noting Chung's claim that his information came from public sources, while the U.S. suspects classified information might have been disclosed.

The existence of a uranium enrichment site in Kusong remains unconfirmed by both Seoul and Washington, though it has long been suspected as a location for nuclear facilities. Wi emphasized the need for ongoing communication to resolve these differences and restore normal cooperation.

When questioned about potential reductions in U.S. intelligence sharing, Wi neither confirmed nor denied the reports, citing the sensitive nature of intelligence matters. He warned against allowing the issue to become a domestic political matter, as it could strain the Seoul-Washington alliance.

Wi also addressed concerns related to South Korea's investigation into Coupang Corp. over a significant data leak, which has emerged as a point of friction between Seoul and Washington. He emphasized that the Coupang is sue should proceed legally, whereas security discussions should continue independently.

Seoul and Washington are in talks to implement security agreements from a joint fact sheet signed in November, which includes U.S. approval for South Korea's nuclear-powered submarine plan. Wi admitted that security discussions have faced delays, urging for their timely conclusion.

In response to a letter from U.S. Republican lawmakers criticizing "discriminatory regulatory actions" against American firms, Wi noted ongoing efforts to engage with U.S. lawmakers on this matter. Furthermore, he reaffirmed Seoul's commitment to the early transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) from the U.S., following remarks by U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson about meeting the conditions for the transfer by early 2029.

Wi explained that the agreed-upon conditions include South Korea's leadership capabilities, strike and missile defense capabilities, and a conducive regional security environment. He emphasized that wartime operational control is ultimately a political decision for leaders of both nations and should involve foreign and security authorities, not just military considerations.