10.4 공동선언 기념행사로 160명 방북... 조명균 "회담 일정 및 평양공동선언 후속 사업 논의"

The South Korean delegates taking part in the historic event up North is brimming with anticipation.
Park Hee-jun turns the spotlight to the members and what they seek to accomplish during the visit.
For the first time in ten years, South and North Korea are holding a joint event together in the North Korean capital.
It's to celebrate the 11th anniversary of the October 4th Declaration, adopted in 2007... by South Korea's late former President Roh Moo-hyun... and North Korea's then-leader Kim Jong-il.
But this trip is even more meaningful than the past ones, as it involves South Koreans from all walks of life.

"This is a trip not only by government officials, but also members of the National Assembly, political parties, regional bodies and civic groups. We will make this an opportunity to further solidify reconciliation, cooperation and peace between the two Koreas."

Seoul's delegation is co-led by the Unification Minister Cho Myoung-gyon... and Lee Hae-chan, Chairman of the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation and the leader of the ruling Democratic Party.
The Roh Moo-hyun Foundation was set up to commemorate the late former president.
Roh's son, Roh Geon-ho, is also traveling to Pyeongyang... which draws attention to whether the sons of the leaders that adopted the declaration -- Roh himself and Kim Jong-un -- could exchange greetings.

"Inter-Korean relations have reached a historic phase. We are seeing some opportunities that can't be missed. I think former President Roh will appreciate the efforts by many, especially the devotion shown by President Moon Jae-in."

The joint celebratory event will be held on Friday at People's Culture Palace in Pyeongyang.
But besides attending that event, the South Korean delegation will be touring some key spots in Pyeongyang, watching North Korean performances... and most importantly, meeting their North Korean counterparts for talks.

"I expect we'll discuss the schedules for other inter-Korean talks... and how to follow up on and implement the Pyeongyang Joint Declaration."

It's expected the Unification Minister could meet Ri Son-gwon, the chairman of the North's reunification committee, for high-level talks.
Seoul's Vice Health Minister and Cultural Heritage Administrator are also joining the delegation, which means they too could meet their counterparts to discuss medical and cultural cooperation.
But it remains to be seen whether the South Korean delegation will meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
Oh Jung-hee, Arirang News.