Unification Minister Meets U.N. Human Rights Chief on Inter-Korean Issues

Unification Minister Chung Dong-young met with U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk on Wednesday to discuss human rights issues and Seoul's efforts to improve ties with Pyongyang, the ministry said. During the closed-door meeting, Chung identified the issue of families separated during the 1950-53 Korean War as the most pressing humanitarian concern between the two Koreas.

The minister also noted North Korea's stated interest in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and women. Chung reaffirmed Seoul's commitment to cooperating with Pyongyang on those fronts. Turk outlined the United Nations' ongoing efforts to monitor human rights conditions in North Korea.

He expressed the agency's readiness to engage with Pyongyang in areas where the North has shown receptiveness.

“The issue of families separated during the 1950-53 Korean War" is the "most pressing" humanitarian concern.”

Earlier in the day, Turk met with the prime minister at the prime minister's office. He described South Korea as an important strategic partner and expressed hope to continue strengthening bilateral cooperation. During that meeting he also expressed interest in North Korea's human rights issues, including the issue of those kidnapped and held by the North, and said his office will play necessary roles.

Turk arrived in South Korea on Tuesday for a three-day visit. He is the first U.N. human rights chief to pay an official visit to the country in 11 years.