President Lee Jae-myung said on the 10th, 'We must strive to restore the severed inter-Korean relations,' adding that 'peace and coexistence between the two Koreas is the most realistic and practical option for our security.'

According to Spokesperson Kang Yoo-jeong, President Lee made this remark while presiding over his first National Security Council (NSC) meeting at the Presidential Office in the afternoon.

President Lee Jae-myung speaks at the 3rd Chief Secretaries and Advisors Meeting held at the Presidential Office in Yongsan, Seoul, on the 10th. /Courtesy of the Presidential Office

President Lee also noted, 'If security is shaken, the economy collapses, and our daily lives cannot be safe,' urging, 'Please gather your wisdom to ensure the safety of the people's lives.'

He emphasized that 'national security is always more important for preventive measures than for post hoc responses,' stating, 'We must comprehensively consider not only the shifting international order and the political situation in our country but also the variables in North Korea that reflect the unique circumstances of the Korean Peninsula.'

President Lee also ordered, 'All relevant departments must prioritize national interests with a unified mindset, focusing on peace, practicality, and public safety.'

The meeting lasted for about 2 hours and 10 minutes, starting at 4:40 p.m. It reportedly discussed major security issues expected in the second half of this year and deliberated on response measures.

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