SEOUL, South Korea – The inaugural International Korean Peninsula Forum (GKF) is set to take place in Seoul’s central district on September 3, as announced by South Korea’s Ministry of Unification on September 2.
The event, which is an upgraded version of the Korean Peninsula International Forum that has been held annually since 2010, will be held at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul. Themed Freedom, Peace, and Prosperity for a United Korean Peninsula, the forum aims to facilitate discussions on the future of the Korean Peninsula and the path to reunification.
A Forum for Unity and Peace
The GKF is designed to be a platform for dialogue among experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the world. The forum will feature a keynote speech by former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who is expected to share his insights on the importance of a peaceful and prosperous Korean Peninsula.
Key Discussion Points
During the forum, participants will delve into several critical topics, including:
- Consensus on Liberal International Order and Korean Peninsula Unification: Experts will discuss the international community’s agreement on the importance of maintaining a liberal international order and its implications for the reunification of the Korean Peninsula.
- Understanding the Current Status of North Korea: The forum will explore ways to better understand the current situation in North Korea, which is crucial for preparing for reunification.
- Significance of New Reunification Discourse and National Consensus: Participants will also examine the need for a new discourse on reunification and the importance of achieving a national consensus on the issue.
A Voice from the North
One notable participant in the forum is Lee Il-gyu, the former counselor at the North Korean embassy in Cuba, who defected to South Korea last November. His presence at the event is expected to provide valuable insights into the inner workings of North Korea and its perspective on reunification.
A Platform for Dialogue
The GKF is an initiative by South Korea’s Ministry of Unification to promote dialogue and cooperation among various stakeholders involved in the Korean Peninsula issue. The forum is part of the country’s ongoing efforts to achieve peace and stability on the Peninsula.
Historical Context
The Korean Peninsula has been divided since the Korean War (1950-1953), with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) and the Republic of Korea (South Korea) remaining technically at war. Despite numerous attempts at reconciliation and dialogue, the path to reunification remains fraught with challenges.
The Road Ahead
The GKF is seen as a significant step forward in fostering international cooperation and understanding in the pursuit of a peaceful and united Korean Peninsula. The forum is expected to contribute to the ongoing efforts to resolve the complex issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula, including denuclearization and human rights.
Conclusion
As the world watches with bated breath, the International Korean Peninsula Forum serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future where peace, freedom, and prosperity can be achieved on the Korean Peninsula. With the participation of high-profile figures and experts, the forum is poised to make significant contributions to the reunification process and the overall stability of the region.
For more information, please contact:
kchy515@yna.co.kr
Copyright (c) Yonhap News Agency. All Rights Reserved.
Views: 0