N. Korea Signals Conditional US Normalization

Kim Jong-un has declared that North Korea stands ready to normalize relations with the United States, but stressed that any breakthrough depends entirely on US policy shifts.

Speaking at the 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea, held from February 19 to 25, the North Korean leader said Pyongyang remains fully prepared for confrontation with the US while maintaining what he described as a firm and consistent policy stance.

Kim stated that if the US recognizes North Korea’s current state status, as defined in the DPRK Constitution, and abandons what Pyongyang considers a hostile policy, there would be no barrier to pursuing closer bilateral ties.

However, he warned that if Washington maintains what he characterized as a confrontational approach, North Korea would respond in a symmetrical manner, asserting that it possesses the necessary means and capabilities.

He emphasized that the future of US–North Korea relations depends entirely on decisions made in Washington, adding that Pyongyang is prepared for either peaceful coexistence or prolonged confrontation.