U.S.: Kim Dae-jung`s Visit ‘Uncertain’

U.S. Ambassador to Korea Alexander Vershbow told reporters yesterday that it was “uncertain” whether former President Kim Dae-jung will plan to visit the DPRK, after paying Mr. Kim a courtesy visit.

Vershbow met the former president at the Kim Dae-jung Presidential Library, situated in Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, for an hour and 20 minutes yesterday afternoon.

Regarding the DPRK missile crisis, Vershbow said that he and the former president both believe the North Korean long-range missile tests will only further isolate the DPRK.

He added that the Americans’ concern over whether it will be missiles or satellites that will be launched at the imminent test is grave, regarding the military capabilities of North Korean missiles and its illegal nuclear weapons development programs.

Among the issues raised during the short visit were Mr. Kim’s visit to the North, ways to improve North-South relations, and the missile crisis, according to Vershbow. He added that he was able to receive insight on Chairman Kim Jong Il of the DPRK National Defense Commission.

taewon_ha@donga.com