S.Korea downplays DPRK threats

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 02-01-2009 09:19

South Korea's president remains optimistic negotiations can resume with the north.

Lee Myung-bak's comments come despite threats by the DPRK to abandon all peace agreements with Seoul.

South Korea's president remains optimistic negotiations can resume with the north. (CCTV.com)

President Lee Myung-bak dismisses the DPRK's claim that his government's tougher policies are pushing the divided peninsula toward armed conflict.

Lee Myung-bak, South Korean President, said, "I am waiting for North Korea to understand that South Korea has affection toward the North, and I think that the two Koreas can hold negotiations before long."

Lee's comments came hours after the DPRK vowed to abandon a non-aggression pact and all other peace agreements with South Korea.

The north also says it will not respect a disputed sea border.

South Koreans are mixed in their reactions to the threats by their northern neighbor.

Kim Chun-Il, Seoul Resident, said, "I think North Korea seems to be trying to lead in a matter of policy by becoming conscious of US Obama. I believe we will do better if we become friendly and if the US does a good job with negotiations."

Kim Chun-Il, Seoul Resident, said, "I am scared, very scared. I suddenly thought that an international war could occur looking at the reports. I am afraid. I am very scared."

Relations have soured since South Korean President Lee Myung-bak took office last February with a pledge to get tough with the DPRK.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei