Chapter 465
This inter-Korean summit was a matter of global interest.
After the first day of talks ended, questions poured in from domestic and foreign media, but government officials remained tight-lipped. Taekgyu, Han Byung-sun, the president of Eunsung Kumgang, and I also did not respond to any media inquiries.
The increased interest compared to previous talks was because of my attendance. Everyone was on edge, waiting to see what the outcome would be.
The negative outlook seemed to prevail. In particular, Japanese media outlets such as NHK and the Sankei Shimbun reported as if the breakdown of the talks was a foregone conclusion.
In the car on the way home, Taekgyu said.
"They seem to be desperately hoping for a breakdown."
"That's what Japan wants."
Prime Minister Okazaki harbors the ambition of transforming Japan into a "normal country," shedding its image as a former aggressor nation.
To do this, they first need to abolish the Peace Constitution, which prohibits the possession of a military and engagement in war. For this reason, Japan has made a big fuss every time North Korea has conducted a missile test, emphasizing that Japan's security is under threat.