(Adnkronos) – Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, rejected South Korea’s offer to send medical supplies to the country, calling it “an insult and a political provocation” against Pyongyang. Seoul’s plan, which has received UN approval, includes the shipment of 1,431 medical devices for diagnosis, treatment, and surgery. Kim, however, branded the initiative a “farce,” dismissing as false the idea that North Korea suffers from a shortage of medicines and health equipment. “To claim that one wants to contribute to improving basic medical services for vulnerable sectors, by referring to a presumed shortage of medicines and medical equipment and the deterioration of the health situation, constitutes an insult to our State, an aberrant political provocation, and a serious violation,” she stated.
According to Kim Yo Jong, Seoul would also be aware that the equipment “cannot enter our territory” and that there is currently no channel to deliver it. The initiative would therefore, in her opinion, conceal a “sinister political calculation” aimed at contrasting South Korea’s “presumed goodwill” with Pyongyang’s refusal. “If they truly wish to mend relations between the parties, they should bear in mind the counterpart’s position in every word and action, demonstrating first and foremost the utmost respect, consideration, and sincerity,” Kim concluded, accusing Seoul authorities of acting through “unilateral judgments, decisions, and announcements.”
