Recent developments in inter-Korean relations
By APWednesday, January 27, 2010
Recent developments in inter-Korean relations
Jan. 1, 2010 — North Korea says in New Year’s message it is committed to improving ties with South Korea.
Jan. 4 — South Korea’s president proposes each side set up a liaison office in the other’s capital to break the impasse in their strained relations.
Jan. 11 — North Korea reiterates longtime demand for a peace treaty with the United States to formally end the 1950-53 Korean War. It also says its return to six-nation nuclear talks depends on the lifting of international sanctions.
Jan. 13 — North Korea’s military warns it will retaliate against South Korea if Seoul doesn’t stop activists from launching propaganda leaflets across their divided border.
Jan. 14 — North Korea proposes holding talks on restarting joint tour programs stalled over the shooting death of a southern tourist and Pyongyang’s anger over Seoul’s policies.
Jan. 15 — North Korea’s all-powerful National Defense Commission headed by leader Kim Jong Il threatens to break off dialogue and even attack South Korea in anger over unconfirmed media reports of a contingency plan by Seoul to deal with potential chaos in the North.
Jan. 19 — North and South Korea begin three days of talks on further developing their joint industrial zone in the North.
Jan. 20 — South Korea’s defense chief calls for a pre-emptive strike on North Korea if there is a clear indication the country is preparing a nuclear attack.
Jan. 22 — North Korea proposes holding military talks with South Korea to discuss ways to facilitate their joint industrial park.
Jan. 24 — North Korea warns it will consider any pre-emptive strike by South Korea a declaration of war.
Jan. 26 — South Korea says North Korea designates two no-sail zones along their disputed western sea border.
Jan. 27 — North Korea fires artillery toward waters under dispute with South Korea. The South fires warning shots back. The North fires more volleys while the South holds it fire.
