South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has called for conditions that could allow dialogue between the United States and North Korea to resume.
Speaking to overseas advisers on Korean Peninsula peace, Lee said the armistice-based system should be transformed into one centred on peace, cooperation and prosperity.
Why talks remain difficult
North and South Korea are technically still at war because the 1950-53 conflict ended with an armistice rather than a peace treaty. Pyongyang now describes South Korea as a hostile state and has shut communication channels.
Lee has consistently favoured engagement, but Seoul cannot restart US-North Korean negotiations alone. Washington and Pyongyang would both need to judge that talks offer more value than continued pressure.
South Korean intelligence has identified signs that the US and North Korea may be open to renewed dialogue, though no direct contacts have been confirmed. President Donald Trump has also discussed reducing some joint military drills, which Pyongyang has long criticised.
Operational control is another issue
Lee said South Korea should regain wartime operational control from the United States before his term ends in 2030. Supporters see the transfer as greater national autonomy; critics worry about alliance coordination during a crisis.
The immediate test is whether diplomatic language produces practical steps: restored communication lines, working-level meetings or agreements to reduce military risk. Without those, the political opening could remain symbolic.
