SEOUL — The South Korean government plans to include the issue of its citizens abducted by North Korea as a main topic in future inter-Korean dialogues. The Unification Ministry announced this intention as part of its 2023-27 basic plan for inter-Korean relations, presented by Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho to the National Assembly. The ministry aims to discuss not only separated families from the 1950-53 Korean War but also South Korean detainees, abductees, and prisoners of war in North Korea. The Yoon Suk Yeol administration views the abduction and detention of South Koreans as a critical humanitarian and human rights issue.

According to Yonhap News Agency, However, the feasibility of this discussion depends on North Korea's acknowledgment and willingness to address these abductions, which Pyongyang has not publicly admitted. Inter-Korean talks have been stalled since December 2018, marking the longest suspension to date. Government data indicates that of the 3,835 South Koreans kidnapped post-Korean War, 516 remain unaccounted for. Currently, six South Koreans, including three pastors, are detained in North Korea. The South Korean government has formed a task force to address these issues and recently held its first interagency meeting in 11 years to explore solutions.