North Korea announces plan to shut down nuclear complex, but it comes with a catch

Published September 19, 2018 11:00am ET



KIM-MOON SUMMIT AGREEMENTS: The smiles and warm feelings on display as South Korean President Moon Jae-in met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un were apparently not just for show as the two leaders met for their third summit. On their second day of talks in Pyongyang, there were some concrete agreements, including a promise by Kim to “permanently dismantle” a missile-engine test facility and a missile launchpad in Dongchang-ri under the watchful eyes of international inspectors.

In a joint statement, Kim also held out the prospect of shutting down North Korea’s main nuclear complex at Yongbyon, but it came with a catch: The U.S. must take corresponding measures, and it’s not clear what those are. Kim also promised to visit South Korea in the near future, which would be a first for a North Korean leader.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.