🇰🇷🇰🇵 Lee Seeks Talks, Expands Military

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Oct. 1 urged North Korea to restore trust and resume dialogue, while reaffirming a major defence buildup in Gyeryong during Armed Forces Day events. His remarks came a day after Seoul and the UN Command said a DMZ landmine blast that injured three South Korean soldiers amounted to an armistice violation, as Lee called for dialogue despite the latest escalation.

Lee said his administration would pursue practical steps to reduce inter-Korean military tensions, even as Pyongyang rejected the armistice findings and Kim Yo Jong warned of retaliation. He also reiterated plans to secure wartime operational control transfer from the US, build nuclear-powered submarines by the mid-2030s, and upgrade missile defence with AI-based command systems, high-energy laser interceptors, and a stronger three-axis defence network.

The agenda combines renewed outreach to Pyongyang with a broader push for self-reliant military capabilities. It also comes as North Korea continues border fortification work along the DMZ and has largely rebuffed Seoul’s overtures.

#SouthKorea #NorthKorea

@asianomics