Seoul Archbishop Voices Concern as North Korea Seals Its Border with the South

Korea, October 16, 2024: Archbishop Peter Soon-Taick Chung of Seoul has voiced concern over North Korea's decision to sever road and rail links with South Korea, an action aimed at "completely separating" the two nations. In an interview with Fides News Agency, the archbishop noted that hope for reunification is fading as the North Korean army moves to permanently close off the southern border, citing self-defense against potential war. The Church, however, remains committed to peace efforts through education and prayer.

Archbishop Chung, who also serves as apostolic administrator of Pyongyang, remarked that tensions between North and South Korea have reached highest levels in recent years. He stressed the importance of continuing to foster hope for peaceful coexistence, even as communication between the two countries has come to a standstill.

"We are approaching the Holy Year [in 2025], which has as its theme hope: we are pilgrims of hope, also with regard to relations with the North,” he also pointed out.

Preparations are already underway in Seoul to host the 2027 World Youth Day. Despite this, humanitarian aid, once allowed into North Korea, has now been completely halted. 

Bishop Simon Kim Ju-young of Chuncheon, head of the Episcopal Commission for Reconciliation, highlighted the unity of Koreans in their desire to send aid to the North, urging prayers for the reopening of the borders. He noted that dioceses across South Korea are holding special prayers and Masses to call for peace and reconciliation.

The Church's leaders are also encouraging clergy and laypeople to raise awareness of the urgent need for peace amid the rising tensions.

Courtesy: RVA News