Trump may meet Kim Jong-un at the truce village
The meeting between the two US and North Korean leaders is being considered at a number of locations, including the Joint Security Area in the truce village of Panmunjeom.
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Two North Korean soldiers at the Joint Security Area look towards South Korea. Photo:CNN. |
"Places like Switzerland, Sweden or Jeju Island have attracted a lot of attention (as possible venues for a meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un), but we are also seriously considering the Joint Security Area (JSA),"Yonhapquoted an official from the office of South Korean President Moon Jae-in today.
The JSA is part of the truce village of Panmunjeom, located on the demarcation line between the two Koreas. This place has witnessed a series of negotiations between Seoul and Pyongyang since the Korean War (1950-1953).
"If North Korea and the United States, which are directly involved in the agreement, hold a summit in Panmunjeom, it will be of great significance in turning a symbol of division into a symbol of peace," the official added. However, the location of the meeting will still be discussed further by Washington and Pyongyang, as well as other factors, especially security, considered.
On March 8, the US President accepted an invitation to meet with the North Korean leader delivered by South Korean special envoy Chung Eui-yong. According toReuters, the meeting could take place in May. Mr. Trump also said yesterday that agreements with North Korea are being established and believes that if completed, they "will be very good for the world."
The US has said it will maintain pressure on North Korea until a concrete deal is reached. Washington has made it clear that if diplomatic efforts fail, it is ready to pursue a military option to force Pyongyang to denuclearize.
