The presidential office says the decision whether or not to hold a South-North Korea summit within this year lies with President Lee Myung-bak.

Joo Ho-young, a spokesman from the presidential office, made the remark on a television program Friday.

He said that although the North desires a summit, the potential for such a meeting will hinge on South Korea.

Joo pointed out that during the past two summits in 2000 and 2007, agendas could not be freely discussed.

The spokesman said South Korea is open to a summit at anytime as long as the principles set by South Korea are not compromised. He stressed that should a summit take place, all agendas must be freely discussed and arranged in advance.