Seoul: South Korea officially began its rotating monthlong presidency of the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) on Tuesday, unveiling a plan for President Lee Jae Myung to preside over the country's signature event on artificial intelligence (AI) later this month. Kim Sang-jin, South Korea's charge d'affaires to the U.N., addressed a press briefing to explain the "program of work," which spells out UNSC plans for meetings and other engagements for September, as South Korea, a nonpermanent UNSC member, holds the presidency for the first time since June last year.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim stated that South Korea will "humbly" assume the presidency while highlighting Seoul's commitment to leading the council with "efficiency, transparency and inclusiveness." He emphasized South Korea's dedication by referencing the nation's history, which embodies the three pillars of the U.N.-peace, development, and human rights. These values are deeply embedded into South Korea's national identity, inspiring its mission to contribute more actively and responsibly to the work of the council.
As part of this month's UNSC events, Kim emphasized South Korea's plan to host a high-level open debate on AI on September 24 under the agenda item of maintaining international peace and security. President Lee will preside over the signature event, marking the first time a South Korean president will lead a UNSC gathering. Lee also plans to attend the U.N. General Assembly and deliver a keynote speech on September 23, according to his office.
The diplomat mentioned that the UNSC has already held two briefings on AI since 2023. Given the rapid development and global spread of AI, a high-level discussion is considered timely and necessary to maximize AI benefits while minimizing its risks. While the UNSC held a meeting on North Korean human rights during Seoul's presidency in June last year, there is no schedule announced to discuss North Korea-related issues this month. However, Kim stated that the council is prepared to convene in response to potential North Korean provocations, such as an intercontinental ballistic missile launch.
In response to a reporter's inquiry about North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's trip to China for a military parade, the diplomat noted that South Korea is monitoring his movements closely. Kim Jong-un plans to attend the Beijing parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a show of solidarity. Kim expressed hope that such trips and potential summits with neighboring countries would contribute to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and aid in achieving the shared goal of denuclearization.
The UNSC presidency rotates among the council's 15 member states on a monthly basis.