Foreign minister defends Moon's 'red line' remark
SEOUL, Aug. 21 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's foreign minister on Monday defended President Moon Jae-in's recent controversial "red line" remark as intended to underline the seriousness of North Korea's threat.
Moon said last week that the North would be crossing a red line if it weaponizes a nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missile.
"I understand that (the president) made the 'red line' comment to express the seriousness of the current situation metaphorically," she said during a session of a parliamentary committee.
"I understand he did so in order to emphasize that the North's nuclear weapons and missiles are our top priority."
She declined to comment when asked what steps Seoul will take when the North crosses the line.
Kang also said South Korea and the United States are closely coordinating over North Korea.
"Should there be talks between the U.S. and the North, I am sure that they would be sought under close coordination with us at every step."
Kang also said there will be no U.S. military action against North Korea without consent from Seoul.
kokobj@yna.co.kr
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