Special Letter

[Anchor Lead]

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has sent a letter to President Moon Jae-in. He expressed gratitude that he won't be able to visit Seoul this year, and said he is determined to do so in 2019. President Moon responded by saying that he hopes to see Kim next year.

[Pkg]

A file sealed with the golden mark of the North Korean leader contains a letter starting with "Your Honor, President Moon Jae-in." Cheong Wa Dae has announced that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent a two-page personal letter to President Moon.

[Soundbite] Kim Eui-kyeom(Cheong Wa Dae Spokesperson) : "Chairman Kim sent warm year-end greetings, and expressed his willingness to work together with South Korea toward peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula."

The North Korean leader reportedly expressed regret that he hadn't been able to keep his promise to visit Seoul this year. He said he is determined to visit the South next year.

[Soundbite] "Kim Jong-un expressed strong willingness to visit Seoul if the circumstances are right."

The North Korean leader also expressed willingness to meet with President Moon more often in 2019 to work together toward peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula. The South Korean president posted a message on social media that he was happy to receive Kim Jong-un's letter. Moon quoted Kim Jong-un as saying that the Korean nation has averted the risk of war and built a relationship of irreversible trust and reconciliation. Moon also said that South Korea's willingness to welcome the North Korean leader has not changed and that he hopes to meet with him next year. Cheong Wa Dae has released to the media only a paraphrased version of Kim Jong-un's letter, as the original text cannot be disclosed for diplomatic reasons. President Moon is expected to send a reply to the North Korean leader soon.