Seoul: A State Department official on Wednesday emphasized the United States' "open" and "clear" commitment to the "complete" denuclearization of North Korea, despite signals from Pyongyang indicating a willingness to engage with the U.S. if the demand for denuclearization is dropped.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Mignon Houston, the department's deputy spokesperson, stated in an interview that the immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump's administration does not alter the relationship between Seoul and Washington. Her comments came in light of a recent raid at a South Korean battery plant site in Georgia.
"This administration has said on numerous occasions from the start that our commitment is to a complete denuclearization of North Korea, that launches of ballistic missiles ... (and) an ambition for weapons of mass destruction is in direct violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions," Houston declared.
She reiterated the U.S.'s desire for an Indo-Pacific region that reduces military tensions and is free, fair, and prosperous. Houston noted that the U.S. remains committed to being "open" and "clear" about its denuclearization goals in relation to the North Korean regime.
These remarks follow North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's recent expression of interest in conditional dialogue with Washington, referencing his "good" memory of Trump and sparking hopes for renewed summitry. Trump has expressed a desire to meet Kim this year, potentially during his visit to South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit scheduled in Gyeongju.
Reflecting on the Sept. 4 immigration raid that resulted in the detention of over 310 South Koreans, Houston insisted it would not affect bilateral ties but emphasized the importance of adhering to U.S. immigration laws.
"Not just with South Korea, but across the board ... we are taking active (immigration policy) steps to ensure companies are doing things the right way. This has nothing to do (with the bilateral ties)," she remarked.
Houston highlighted the enduring partnership between the U.S. and South Korea, describing it as a linchpin of regional prosperity and expressing honor and gratitude for the alliance.
The immigration raid, which saw South Korean workers arrested for allegedly working illegally in the U.S., has sparked public backlash in Korea. Concerns have been raised about the U.S.'s reliability as an investment destination following the release of video footage showing shackled and handcuffed workers.
Mindful of these reactions, Houston emphasized Washington's interest in renewing foreign direct investment in the U.S. but stressed the necessity for respect and adherence to immigration laws.
Regarding U.S. priorities for the South Korea-U.S. partnership, Houston expressed hope for economic and investment opportunities and a trusted global supply chain.
She also noted the U.S.'s aspiration for South Korea and Japan to assume leadership roles in regional security and other matters, highlighting their economic strength and expertise as vital to global stability and reduced military tensions.