South Korea holds ultimate decision for military action on Peninsula

Posted on : 2017-08-18 18:23 KST Modified on : 2017-08-18 18:23 KST
President Moon reiterated that US and South Korea are ‘on the same page’ with regard to North Korea
President Moon Jae-in answers a reporter’s question at a press conference in the Blue House reception on Aug. 17.  The press conference marked Moon’s 100th day since taking office.
President Moon Jae-in answers a reporter’s question at a press conference in the Blue House reception on Aug. 17. The press conference marked Moon’s 100th day since taking office.

On Aug. 17, South Korean President Moon Jae-in once again downplayed recent concerns that a military crisis could occur on the Korean Peninsula this month, declaring that “no one can decide to take military action on the Korean Peninsula without the consent of South Korea.”

“The entire nation united and built this country into what it is today from the wreckage of the Korean War, and we must not allow another war to rob us of all that. I will stop a war no matter what,” Moon declared during a press conference held at the Blue House reception hall to mark the 100th day of his presidency. “Only South Korea can decide to take military action on the Korean Peninsula. The US and President Trump have promised to adequately discuss any options against North Korea in advance and to gain our consent, regardless of the option.”

Amid recent concerns about a military conflict between the US and North Korea following North Korea’s threat to launch an “enveloping strike” on Guam, Moon has categorically stated that there will be no war.

Responding to criticism that Trump is contradicting South Korea with his references to military action, Moon said “the US and South Korea are fundamentally on the same page. We’re using tough sanctions and pressure against North Korea to stop it from carrying out additional provocations, and we agree that we need to persuade North Korea to join negotiations aimed at giving up its nuclear weapons.“

“President Trump is attempting to pressure North Korea by showing firm resolve, and that doesn’t necessary mean he intends to take military action,” Moon asserted.

“The UN Security Council unanimously passed robust sanctions that shut down two-thirds of North Korea’s exports, and Russia and China were also on board. In other words, that was aimed at preventing war. These tough sanctions are being used to force North Korea to come to the table for talks,” Moon said.

By Choi Hye-jeong, staff reporter

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