The government says the exclusive rights to seven commercial projects given to Hyundai by North Korea in 2000 are still valid.

In an interview with a local radio station Wednesday, Deputy Unification Minister Lee Bong-jo said the related contract is still valid, as there has been no change to what was agreed on between the two sides.

Lee said if changes are to be made, the government will endorse the project in such a way as to harmonize the interests of the parties involved and of the South Korean nation.

As for the North’s offer of the Gaesong tourism project to Lotte Tours, the official said if Pyongyang wants to make deals with other parties on projects that it already concluded with Hyundai, then the issue should be handled in line with South Korean regulations.