Wi Sung-lac, Office of National Security chief, on the 24th addressed the recent conflict in diplomacy and security between the so-called "sovereigntists" and "alliance advocates," saying, "I think it is better not to show a confusing appearance externally."
Deputy Minister Wi held a briefing in the Chunchugwan at the Blue House on the morning of the same day regarding visits to the United States, Canada, and Japan, and said, "The United States and Japan are examining our situation and receiving reports," adding, "At times, they ask about the position of the Korean government."
In response to a question at the briefing about "ways to resolve the conflict between sovereigntists and alliance advocates," Deputy Minister Wi said, "There has always been a lot of controversy between the sovereigntists and alliance advocates, so it is difficult for me to comment," adding, "If I keep talking, matters get more complicated, so I will refrain from speaking. It is just that President Lee Jae-myung has sorted out a lot."
He continued, "As we have done so far, we will work to ensure that various opinions from multiple ministries can be presented through the National Security Council (NSC)," adding, "Anywhere can have different opinions, but what matters is coordination."
Recently, as President Lee Jae-myung received work briefings from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Unification Ministry, a conflict surfaced between the "sovereigntists," who emphasize Korea's leadership on North Korea policy, and the "alliance advocates," who value cooperation with the United States. In this process, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs showed a stance that policy coordination between South Korea and the United States should be managed through diplomatic channels, while the Unification Ministry put forward separate consultations with the United States regarding North Korea policy.