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Tensions on the Korean Peninsula

South Korea calls on DPRK to restore communication via inter-Korean channels

According to the Ministry of Unification, maintenance of the inter-Korean channels could be reviewed as a humanitarian issue

SEOUL, November 2. /TASS/. South Korea urges DPRK to restore communication via regular phone calls through the inter-Korean communication office, says South Korean Ministry of Unification Spokesman Koo Byoung-sam.

"As indicated by the case of rescue of the North Korean ship that was found adrift on October 29 near the Northern Limit Line in the Sea of Japan, the communication channels are necessary for notifications and consultations in case of distress at sea, and they must not be cut," the spokesman said.

On October 29, South Korean forces spotted a vessel adrift near the limit line and provided the crew with water and food in response to its request. According to the seamen, they were adrift for 10 days. Later, the vessel was towed by North Korean authorities. South Korea notified the North via the UN Command and international navigation channels.

"This issue is connected to security and life of not only our citizens, but residents of North Korea as well. Thus, maintenance of the inter-Korean channels could be reviewed as a humanitarian issue. We urge the north to promptly restore communication to make coordinated measures in emergency situations possible," Koo Byoung-sam said.

He noted that North Korean authorities have not been answering to regular calls through the inter-Korean communication office since April 7. Previously, the sides had calls twice a day.

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North Korea South Korea Situation on the Korean Peninsula

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