Former lawmaker Im Jong-seok, who served as chief of staff to President Moon Jae-in, proposed a “peaceful two-state theory” on the 6th anniversary of the 9/19 joint declaration. This proposal has caused confusion within the ruling Democratic Party due to its departure from traditional peace and unification policies. Im’s long history of promoting reunification and his ties to the current administration’s peace initiatives have further complicated reactions within the party.
Critics from both within and outside the party have expressed concerns about the potential consequences of embracing a two-state approach on Korean society. Some have criticized the lack of consultation on these statements, while others have suggested that the current situation on the Korean Peninsula necessitates a more pragmatic approach.
The main opposition party has accused Im of echoing North Korea’s stance on inter-Korean relations, sparking a heated debate on the future direction of relations on the peninsula. Despite the backlash, Im remains hopeful that healthy debates can lead to a peaceful resolution and leave the ultimate decision on reunification to future generations.
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