1. The government of the Republic of Korea greatly welcomes North Korea’s repatriation of remains of US soldiers killed in the Korean War after their being away from home for more than half a century, considering it a humanitarian measure that could help to heal anguish of those killed in the Korean War and their bereaved families.

2. The government of the Republic of Korea notes with appreciation that the repatriation, which came pursuant to the agreement reached by the US and North Korean leaders at their bilateral summit talks on June 12, marks a significant progress that could contribute to the establishment of peace between the two sides. The ROK government expects to see the two sides’ efforts accelerated to promote peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

3. Meanwhile, amid the improving inter-Korean relations, the government of the Republic of Korea will continue consultations with the North Korean government to seek ways to carry out the excavation of remains of ROK soldiers killed in the Korean War and to bring them home to their families as soon as possible.

* unofficial translation