Seoul Ready to Provide Aid to Pyongyang

The presidential office of Cheong Wa Dae said yesterday, “If the condition permits, we’ll provide humanitarian assistance to North Korea any time.”

A key official at the presidential office told reporters, “The government’s policy of humanitarian support for North Koreans has been President Lee Myung-bak’s principle since his campaigning days, and it hasn’t changed.” But he added, “We’re not considering aid through international organizations or participation in the United States’ food aid to the North.”

Asked what he meant by “condition,” the official answered, “There has been no request for assistance from Pyongyang.” The government is sticking to the principle that it will send humanitarian aid only when there is an official request from the North.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Yu Myung-hwan also said on the issue on the same day, “When I have an opportunity, I’ll have a direct discussion with Pyongyang.”

Regarding this issue, Grand National Party floor leader Ahn Sang-soo said at a senior lawmakers’ meeting in the National Assembly, “It is said that there are numerous people dying from hunger in North Korea. The government should review the issue promptly from a humanitarian perspective to provide food aid and prevent our brethren from starving to death.”

swpark@donga.com