Defense Minister Kim Jang-soo arrived in Pyongyang Tuesday for the second inter-Korean defense ministerial talks.

In a public statement before departing from Gimpo Airport, he said he goes with a heavy responsibility carrying the public's wish for inter-Korean reconciliation and peace.

He pledged to actively pursue military guarantees to implement last month's summit accords.

The three-day talks began with the first general meeting Tuesday afternoon attended by North Korean official Kim Il-chol.

The 30-member South Korean delegation also includes Defense Ministry policy chief Jeong Seung-jo, support staff and five reporters.