Unification Minister Chung Dong-young said Thursday that North Korea remains committed to the Mount Geumgang tour.

In Pyongyang for inter-Korean ministerial talks, Chung said the North stressed the tour will continue and will not obstruct it, adding Pyongyang is optimistic over the venture.

He said Ri Jong-hyuk, vice chairman of the North's Asia-Pacific Peace Committee, will meet Hyundai Group Chairwoman Hyun Jeong-eun to resolve their recent friction over the tourism venture.

Chung briefed the North's chief delegate Kwon Ho-ung on Seoul's position and worry over the tour, and proposed direct talks between business operators of the two Koreas.