Seoul: The unification ministry announced on Tuesday that South Korea has yet to decide on its participation in the upcoming international economic forum in Russia. The annual Eastern Economic Forum is set to take place from September 1-4 in Vladivostok, drawing attention due to speculation about a potential summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin during the event.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the unification ministry conveyed that various government agencies are still engaged in discussions regarding the possibility of sending officials to the forum. A ministry official stated, "It has not been decided yet," and emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication with Russia if South Korea decides to participate, particularly in discussions concerning peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Currently, there are no indications of Kim Jong-un's attendance at the forum. The unification ministry seems to view the event as an opportunity to enhance diplomatic dialogue with Russia, potentially contributing to peace efforts on the Korean Peninsula. However, some opinions within the government suggest that attending the forum may be inappropriate due to Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

In past years, South Korean officials have engaged with the forum in various capacities. In 2021, former Unification Minister Lee In-young participated virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On other occasions, director general-level officials have represented South Korea. Meanwhile, North Korea has historically sent high-ranking officials such as the vice premier or external economic minister. In 2022, North Korean Ambassador to Russia Sin Hong-chol attended the forum, but North Korea has not confirmed its participation for the current year.