Japanese Government: "North Korea's Nuclear Development Threatens International Community" in Response to Kim Jong Un's Remarks

The Japanese government stated on the 22nd that North Korea's nuclear missile development is "absolutely unacceptable," in response to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's indication that he may engage in North Korea-US dialogue under the condition of abandoning denuclearization.

Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan, Hayashi Yoshimasa [EPA=Yonhap News Agency file photo, reproduction and redistribution prohibited] 

In response to a question at a regular press conference on the same day, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa, the spokesperson for the Japanese government, said, "North Korea's nuclear missile development threatens the peace and security of our country (Japan) and the international community."

He added, "We will continue to demand the full implementation of UN Security Council resolutions and the complete dismantlement of North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs, in cooperation with the international community, including the United States and South Korea."

He also stated, "While we will refrain from making preconceived remarks about dialogue between North Korea and the US, cooperation with the international community, including the United States, is indispensable in our response to North Korea, and we intend to continue close cooperation with the US government."

In a speech to the Supreme People's Assembly the previous day, Chairman Kim expressed that he has "good memories" of US President Donald Trump and indicated he could engage in North Korea-US dialogue on the condition of abandoning denuclearization.

However, Chairman Kim also declared, "I state with certainty that 'denuclearization' is absolutely, absolutely impossible for us." (Reporting assistance: Correspondent Kim Ji-soo) Yonhap News