In a recent address to the United Nations General Assembly, President Yoon Suk-Yeol of the Republic of Korea highlighted several critical global and regional issues that demand immediate attention and collective action. He emphasized the deepening divisions within the international community, exacerbated by the war in Ukraine and the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Global Crises and Development Divide
President Yoon underscored the multifaceted global crises, including the contraction of the global economy, food and energy crises, and the climate crisis. He stressed that bridging the development divide is crucial, particularly through the provision of essential infrastructure such as water and sewage systems, energy facilities, and healthcare facilities. The Republic of Korea has increased its official development assistance (ODA) budget by 40% for 2024 to support development cooperation tailored to the needs of its partner countries.
The climate crisis was also a key focus, with President Yoon noting that extreme weather events have become the norm and are causing geopolitical shifts in agriculture and fisheries. To address this, Seoul plans to scale up its green development assistance, including an additional $300 million contribution to the Green Climate Fund.
Digital Divide and AI Governance
The digital divide was identified as a major cause of economic divide. President Yoon emphasized the importance of bridging this gap by supporting the digital transformation of countries with limited digital penetration and utilization. This initiative aims to enhance citizens' access to education, healthcare, and financial services. Additionally, the Republic of Korea plans to host a global AI forum to discuss and set forth rules regarding AI governance under the United Nations.
Regional Security Concerns
President Yoon addressed the significant threat posed by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) nuclear and missile programs, which he described as a direct and existential threat to the Republic of Korea and a serious challenge to peace in the Indo-Pacific region and globally. He warned that if the DPRK acquires technology to enhance its weapons of mass destruction in exchange for supporting Russia with conventional weapons, it would be a direct provocation threatening the peace and security of not only Ukraine but also the Republic of Korea.
The South Korea-U.S. alliance was also discussed, with a focus on the need for a shared perspective and stronger alliance cohesion in dealing with North Korean threats. The alliance has formulated the 'Tailored Deterrence Strategy' but faces challenges in aligning their strategies and responding to nuclear threats effectively.
Criticism of Russia's Veto Power
South Korean Foreign Minister Tae-yul Cho criticized Russia's use of its veto power at the UN Security Council, which he argued undermines the international non-proliferation regime. The minister emphasized the need for reform of the UN Security Council to ensure it better represents the international community and exercises its power more effectively in preventing conflicts and promoting peace-building activities.
The minister's remarks highlighted the broader call for UN reform, including the regulation of veto powers and a more equitable distribution of seats to represent underrepresented regions, such as the African continent.
