S.Korea calls for greater ASEAN role in Korean Peninsula peace efforts

South Korea’s Unification Minister Chung Dong-young called on ASEAN to take a more active role in promoting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula during a meeting with Thai Ambassador to South Korea Tanee Sangrat on the 10th in Seoul.

At the meeting, held at the Government Complex Seoul, Minister Chung emphasized that peace on the Korean Peninsula has “direct and indirect implications” for Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific region. He noted that ASEAN, particularly through the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), could play a meaningful facilitative role in building dialogue and reducing tensions.

Chung highlighted the need to strengthen strategic communication between South Korea and Thailand, requesting that ASEAN consider appointing a special envoy dedicated to Korean Peninsula affairs to support diplomatic momentum toward peaceful coexistence.

Thailand currently serves as the ASEAN dialogue coordinator for South Korea and also hosts the largest North Korean embassy among ASEAN member states, positioning it as a potential bridge for multilateral engagement.

Chung also pointed to North Korea’s recent efforts to expand diplomatic outreach to ASEAN countries, referencing the attendance of multiple ASEAN representatives at North Korea’s military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party last month. He stated that this signals ASEAN’s increasing relevance in North Korea’s external relations.

In response, Ambassador Sangrat reaffirmed Thailand’s support for lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula and encouraged South Korea to make full use of ARF as a forum for constructive diplomacy. He also reiterated Thailand’s willingness to cooperate actively with South Korea’s END Initiative, which aims to formally end the Korean War and establish a sustainable peace framework.

The Unification Ministry said the meeting reflects South Korea’s ongoing efforts to expand diplomatic coordination with ASEAN partners and diversify channels for dialogue with North Korea, particularly in the current security environment.