Seoul: Unification Minister Chung Dong-young stated that the government aims to implement a North Korea policy in a peaceful and gradual manner, countering concerns about a potential radical approach toward Pyongyang.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Chung made these remarks during a meeting with Kim Jong-hyuk, president of the United Christian Churches of Korea, an association of Protestant churches in South Korea. Addressing concerns from the Protestant church circle about the administration of liberal President Lee Jae Myung being overly tolerant toward North Korea, Chung emphasized, "We could not imagine (taking) shocking or radical methods (in terms of North Korea policy)."

Chung further elaborated that public support is crucial for any policy to be successful, stating, "Even a good idea cannot be realized if there is no public support. A radical policy cannot help inviting public animosity." He highlighted that the government has maintained three core principles of North Korea policy-peaceful, phased, and gradual approaches-carried over from previous liberal administrations.

Since taking office in June, President Lee has committed to resuming dialogue and reconciliation efforts with North Korea. Recently, the defense ministry proposed military talks with the North to clarify the Military Demarcation Line and prevent accidental clashes in border areas. However, Pyongyang has not responded to this proposal.