Pres. Kim, "No Change in NK Policy"

President Kim Dae Jung does not feel the alleged underground nuclear facilities in North Korea or the unidentified NK vessel detected off South Korea's west coast are serious plots by the North to undermine the Korean peninsula's growing stability. Kim commented on his return from visiting China and the APEC summit meetings, 'These kinds of incidents were considered a possibility in the growing relationship between the North and the South. We will maintain the ongoing policy that preserves security and cooperation simultaneously.'
Regarding the alleged nuclear facilities in Kumchangri, North Korea, Kim commented, 'That is unconfirmed so far but only an allegation. No conclusive evidence has been found yet. There is also no evidence that North Korea contravened the Geneva Agreement. If we worsen the situation without any conclusive evidence, our economy could suffer. The government will fulfill our stated policies towards the North, while maintaining national security. Allegations about North Korea's nuclear facilities should be cleared up as quickly as possible. If North Korea has not developed nuclear arms, all they have to do is show it.' He continued, 'The U.S. and Korea do not hold different views on the allegation. Al Gore, the U.S. vice president unequivocally supported our sunshine policy towards the North at the APEC summits.'
Kim commented on his China visit, 'China decided that it believes in our government, so, it will play an influential role in deterring North Korea's provocations'