In a recent address, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol responded to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's remarks about permanently excluding South Korea from the category of kin. He highlighted that ongoing confrontation and hostile policies cannot erase underlying animosities but must instead be addressed through persistent efforts towards reconciliation. Yoon noted the importance of self-reflection regarding whether past insults and threats towards North Korea have contributed to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

During a meeting at the Blue House, President Yoon expressed concern over North Korea's hostile rhetoric and distrust towards South Korea, acknowledging that some have interpreted such responses as submissive. He stressed that efforts to improve relations must be mutual and continuous, asserting that blaming others does not lead to resolution. The president emphasized that relationships, whether personal or national, require ongoing work and commitment to build trust over time.

Yoon reiterated that achieving peace and stability should be the ultimate goal, insisting on the necessity to move away from a past characterized by hostility and confrontation. He conveyed a clear message that significant changes cannot occur overnight but require steadfast dedication to developing understanding and empathy between the two Koreas. By doing so, Yoon hopes to foster an environment conducive to lasting peace and positive cooperation on the Korean Peninsula.