In an unusual diplomatic development, North Korea has praised South Korean President Lee Jae Myung for apologizing over unauthorized drone flights that crossed into North Korean territory.
During a cabinet meeting on Monday, President Lee expressed remorse for at least two separate drone incidents that he said were conducted by civilians acting against government policy. He characterized these actions as an “act of revolt” against South Korea itself.
North Korea had previously claimed that drones from the South had breached its airspace and accused Seoul of serious provocation, stating they had shot down the aircraft.
Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, responded positively to Lee’s statements through the KCNA state news agency. “Our government appreciated it as a very fortunate and wise behaviour for its own sake,” she said, referring to the South Korean president’s comments.
She added that her brother viewed Lee’s apology as “a manifestation of a frank and broad-minded man’s attitude.” Kim Yo Jong frequently speaks on foreign policy issues and is believed to represent her brother’s positions.
This diplomatic tone represents a dramatic shift from North Korea’s recent harsh rhetoric, where it has labeled South Korea its “most hostile enemy” and declared that unification was no longer possible.
The Korean Peninsula remains divided, with both nations technically still at war following their 1950-53 conflict that concluded with an armistice rather than a peace treaty.
Lee revealed that an internal investigation discovered that a National Intelligence Service worker and an active military member were connected to the drone incidents, which he said violated South Korea’s constitution prohibiting provocative acts against North Korea.
“Although it was not our government’s intention, we express our regret to the North over the fact that unnecessary military tensions were caused by the irresponsible and reckless actions of some individuals,” Lee stated during the cabinet session.
Since assuming office in June, President Lee has attempted multiple diplomatic initiatives with North Korea to repair relations that had deteriorated to historic lows, emphasizing that peaceful coexistence would benefit both nations economically.
