Seoul's Unification Ministry has conveyed firm determination to implement inter-Korean agreements following the North Korean leader's emphasis on executing those agreements made during the North's ongoing party congress.

Ministry spokesperson Yoh Sang-key said Saturday the government's consistent stance is to pursue denuclearization and lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula and advancement in inter-Korean ties.

He expressed hope the two Koreas can create a new starting point for peace and prosperity based on mutual trust and respect in the near future.

He also hoped for U.S.-North Korea relations to swiftly resume, saying the incoming U.S. administration can be a great opportunity to improve bilateral relations.

The spokesman added the ministry will keep tabs on the party congress for any further statements from Pyongyang.

According to North Korean state media, leader Kim Jong-un urged the South to faithfully implement cross-border agreements and said inter-Korean ties could return to three years ago at any time depending on Seoul's attitude.

[Photo : YONHAP News]