Seoul: The unification ministry stated on Thursday that the pending bills, which would give the South Korean government control over non-military access to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), are in alignment with the armistice, as they necessitate prior consultation with the United Nations Command (UNC).

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry's clarification follows the UNC's strong opposition to the bills, which it described as "completely at odds" with the armistice agreement that concluded the 1950-53 Korean War. The ministry emphasized that the ongoing parliamentary discussions require UNC consultations for DMZ access approval, asserting that this requirement ensures there is no conflict with the armistice.

The unification ministry expressed its commitment to cooperating on the DMZ access bills while respecting the legislative rights of the National Assembly. The bills, proposed by ruling party lawmakers, aim to grant the government authority to regulate non-military access to the DMZ to promote the peaceful use of the buffer zone separating the two Koreas.

The U.S.-led UNC has opposed the bills, emphasizing its role as the DMZ administrator under the armistice agreement. Unification Minister Chung Dong-young reiterated his support for the bills, insisting they do not conflict with the armistice. He also sought to allay concerns that any disagreement with the UNC could affect South Korea-U.S. relations.

Meanwhile, the defense ministry took a more cautious approach, emphasizing its intention to collaborate closely with the UNC regarding the DMZ's military buffer zone. Ministry spokesperson Chung Binna stated that the defense ministry respects the UNC's authority and is committed to cooperation based on the armistice agreement.