South Korean Unification Minister Hyun In-taek said Wednesday that inter-Korean relations are currently experiencing difficult times.

Hyun said that "a variety of currents" is flowing in regards to inter-Korean relations and that the situation is currently unstable and uncertain.

Hyun also said that the government is making efforts to channel such currents into dialogue, cooperation, peace and unification.

He also said that what is clear is that North Korea’s nuclear program must be dismantled and that the Stalinist nation should be solicited to open its doors, not pursue isolation.

Hyun added that regarding unification, three principles must be shared: unification through peaceful means, proper preparations by both sides, and support from neighboring nations.