A South Korean delegation returns to Pyongyang for three days to commemorate the 11th anniversary a North-South joint declaration signed in 2007
South Korea’s Unification Minister, Cho Myoung-gyon, led a delegation of about 160 others to Pyongyang Thursday along with Democratic Party leader Lee Hae-chan. The three-day trip is set to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the October 4 Declaration, signed in 2007 by then-South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun and his counterpart North Korean leader Kim Jong-il during their inter-Korean summit. The festivities are scheduled to take place Oct. 5.
“We make this trip to Pyongyang in the spirit of the October 4 Declaration,” Cho told the traveling pool of reporters before departing Seoul. “The government authorities, together with political parties, municipal government officials and civic groups, will return after creating a chance to solidify inter-Korean reconciliation, cooperation and peace.”
The envoys will travel to Pyongyang along the direct western route, as South Korean President Moon Jae-in did last month for his third summit with Kim Jong Un.
South Korean delegation
The South Korean government is sending 30 individuals as part of the contingent visiting Pyongyang. In addition, the unification minister, the head of the Cultural Heritage Association, members of the national assembly, individuals from political parties, and local officials will make the trip. More than 80 people from various private organizations will join them.
Those from South Korea will visit several “major facilities” in the North and view an art performance; however, the unification ministry hasn’t provided specifics. It’s also unclear if the group will meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during their visit.
“I plan to discuss ways to implement the Pyongyang Joint Declaration with North Korean authorities,” Cho said at a meeting earlier this week.
