South Korea Plans Phased Denuclearization Strategy With North Korea, US Coordination

South Korea is pursuing a phased denuclearization strategy for North Korea, progressing from freezing nuclear activities to reduction and eventual dismantlement, while simultaneously seeking to revive inter-Korean dialogue alongside North Korea-U.S. nuclear talks. President Lee Jae Myung has emphasized restoring ties with the North by implementing existing agreements, including the 2018 military tension reduction pact, with a focus on easing border tensions and respecting North Korea's current regime without pursuing unification by absorption. The South Korean government aims to coordinate closely with the United States and involve neighboring countries such as China and Russia in the denuclearization process. Despite these diplomatic initiatives, Pyongyang's response remains cautious, with state media downplaying the outreach. The approach reflects a dual effort to build peace and security on the Korean Peninsula through both diplomatic engagement and maintaining a strong defense posture. These developments come amid broader global shifts in diplomatic and security dynamics.