The United States, Japan, and South Korea issued a joint statement on Saturday, reaffirming their strong commitment to North Korea’s complete denuclearization. This statement followed a meeting between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, South Korean Foreign Minister Choe Tae-yul, and Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya at the Munich Security Conference.

Denuclearization Commitment

In the statement, the three countries emphasized their continued dedication to the complete denuclearization of North Korea, in full alignment with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs).

Concerns Over North Korea’s Activities

Additionally, the nations expressed serious concerns over North Korea’s ongoing nuclear and missile programs. Furthermore, they pointed out its malicious cyber activities, such as cryptocurrency theft, and growing military cooperation with Russia.

Warning to North Korea

As a result, the countries issued a strong warning. They made it clear that they would not tolerate any provocations or threats against their nations. Moreover, they pledged to intensify international sanctions against Pyongyang.

Addressing Humanitarian Issues

In addition, the three countries addressed the urgent need to resolve humanitarian issues, including the cases of abductees, detainees, and prisoners of war, as well as the matter of separated families.

North Korea’s Ongoing Nuclear Program

Despite being heavily sanctioned and diplomatically isolated, North Korea continues its nuclear weapons development. Consequently, this ongoing issue remains a significant concern for the United States.

Trump’s Past Engagement with Kim Jong Un

Previously, former President Donald Trump held a series of meetings with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump referred to Kim as a “smart guy” and stated that he would consider reaching out to him again.

North Korea’s Stance on Its Nuclear Program

However, in January, North Korea declared that it would continue its nuclear program “indefinitely.” Additionally, after Rubio referred to the country as a “rogue state” in a radio interview, North Korea warned that it would not tolerate any provocation from the United States.

North Korea’s Reaction to US Military Actions

Furthermore, North Korea condemned the recent visit of a US nuclear submarine to a South Korean naval base. It labeled the move as a “hostile military act.”

2019 Summit Collapse

Lastly, the summit between Trump and Kim in Hanoi in 2019 ultimately collapsed. The failure was due to disagreements over sanctions relief and what North Korea was willing to give up in exchange.