Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, said on Thursday that Seoul must show “utmost respect” if it wants to improve ties, as Pyongyang continued to reject responsibility for a landmine blast that wounded three South Korean soldiers.
A joint Seoul-United Nations Command investigation found that the explosion last month in the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) was caused by North Korean mines laid on the South Korean side of the border.
Pyongyang has denied responsibility, while South Korea has demanded an apology, calling the incident a violation of the armistice agreement.
“If they (Seoul) really want to reverse the relations between the DPRK and the ROK, they should be conscious of their rival’s feelings in every word and action and show their utmost respect, solicitude and sincerity before anything,” Kim said, using the two countries official acronyms.
Aid dismissed as political manoeuvre
Kim also criticised Seoul’s plan to send medical equipment to North Korea next month under a UN sanctions exemption. The aid, reportedly worth 9.3 billion won ($6.95 million), could include ambulances and medical sterilisation equipment.
Kim dismissed the initiative as an attempt to recover from what she called a “self-orchestrated farce”, adding that Pyongyang had “nothing to exchange or go with the ROK” and no need to meet face to face.
North Korea has strengthened its border fortifications, including laying mines and building anti-tank barriers, after Kim Jong-un designated South Korea his country’s “principal enemy” in 2024.
Seoul warned against interference
South Korean officials have called for dialogue to address border issues, but Kim Yo-Jong said any action by Seoul, whether driven by “evil intention or good faith”, would be viewed as a provocation and violation of North Korea’s sovereignty.
Her remarks come as US President Donald Trump has renewed overtures to Pyongyang, raising concerns in Seoul that it could be sidelined in potential nuclear talks.
Analyst Ahn Chan-il told AFP that North Korea’s priority appeared to be a possible deal with Washington and closer ties with Russia, with South Korean engagement viewed as a potential obstacle.
He added that Kim’s remarks did not necessarily rule out future dialogue, but warned Seoul against intervening without offering something substantial.
