Seoul: The unification ministry on Tuesday criticized the 2016 suspension of the inter-Korean factory zone, describing it as "self-injurious" and expressed hope for its swift reopening.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry issued the statement on the 10th anniversary of South Korea's suspension of the Kaesong Industrial Complex, which was a response to North Korea's nuclear and missile programs under the conservative Park Geun-hye administration. The ministry contended that the suspension undermined the foundation for trust and mutual growth between the two Koreas.

A ministry official expressed "deep regret" at Seoul's missed opportunity to reopen the industrial complex, particularly after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed willingness in January 2019 to reopen it without preconditions. The official emphasized the need for reinstating inter-Korean communication channels to resume dialogue and take steps toward the normalization of the Kaesong Industrial Complex and rebuilding trust.

The ministry plans to prepare for the reopening of the joint factory zone by reinstating supportive foundations in collaboration with the National Assembly. The complex, which began operations in 2004, was a symbol of inter-Korean economic cooperation and political reconciliation, employing approximately 55,000 North Korean workers in 120 South Korean firms.

The complex was shut down on February 10, 2016, in response to North Korea's nuclear weapon test and missile launches. In 2020, North Korea destroyed an inter-Korean liaison office at the complex. The ministry noted that the complex served as a safety valve for tensions and a test bed for reunification, while also pledging support for South Korean businesses affected by the closure.