However, Kim Jong-un made no mention of the North’s nuclear weapons program, despite growing speculation that Pyongyang is preparing to conduct a nuclear test following the rocket success.
Yang Moo-jin, a professor at Seoul’s University of North Korean Studies, said the general tone of the speech was positive.
“It might signal limited economic reforms this year and also sends a message to South Korea’s incoming president about a desire for improved cross-border relations,” Yang said.
RSS