Seoul, Jan 26 (NationPress) The Unification Minister of South Korea, Chung Dong-young, announced on Monday that the government is currently evaluating the possibility of dispatching a special envoy to neighboring nations to assist in fostering dialogue between the United States and North Korea.

In a statement to reporters, Chung remarked, "(The unification ministry) highlighted the necessity during its policy briefing to the president, and a review is presently underway," when questioned about the consideration of sending a special envoy.

During last month’s briefing to President Lee Jae Myung, Chung suggested the appointment of an envoy for "peace on the Korean Peninsula" to rally support from relevant countries for the reopening of US-North Korea discussions, as well as inter-Korean talks, according to the Yonhap News Agency.

Chung’s comments followed a report from the Dong-A Ilbo newspaper stating that he had been designated as a peace envoy for the Korean Peninsula and would be traveling to China and subsequently to the United States.

He did not confirm this report but stated that determining who would serve as the peace envoy is not an immediate concern, although he expressed his willingness to accept the role if appointed.

The government has indicated that the time leading up to President Donald Trump's scheduled visit to China in April will be crucial for establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula, contingent on whether Trump can secure talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

Ministry spokesperson Yoon Min-ho also mentioned during a press briefing that the unification ministry is collaborating with other relevant government entities to evaluate the appointment of a peace envoy for the Korean Peninsula, while withholding further details.

On January 23, South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok suggested that the United States consider sending a special envoy to North Korea to enhance relations between Washington and Pyongyang during his discussions with US Vice President JD Vance.

Kim presented this idea during a 50-minute meeting at the White House as Vance sought his insights on diplomacy with the unyielding regime, amid speculations that Trump could aim for a meeting with Kim Jong-un during his visit to China in April.

The two parties also addressed the ongoing investigation into Coupang Inc., a US-listed company, regarding a significant customer data breach, amid worries that it could escalate into a trade dispute. Vance emphasized to Seoul the importance of ensuring that the issue does not lead to "misunderstandings" between the two administrations, according to Kim.

“First, (I informed Vance) that in reality, only President Trump possesses the will and capability to improve relations (with North Korea),” he stated.

"Secondly, I mentioned that dispatching a special envoy to North Korea ... regardless of who it might be ... can be a means to demonstrate a willingness to enhance relations (with the North)," he concluded.