South Korea’s President agrees ‘in principle’ to end war with North Korea after 68 years

Peace after the Korean War, which started in 1950, was never officially declared despite an armistice agreement being signed in July 1953. But South Korean President Moon Jae-in, 68, said he hopes an end of war declaration will help Seoul and Pyongyang recommence previously stalled talks, according to the Korea Herald.

He also suggested it could kickstart talks between North Korea and the United States.

Seoul and Pyongyang had held tasks alongside representatives from Moscow, Beijing and Washington back in 2018 and 2019.

However, negotiations ended before parties could take a step forward.

Mr Moon’s comments were made during a press conference with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, 53, in Canberra.

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The pair also announced a new quarantine-free travel agreement between Australia, South Korea and Japan which will start on Wednesday.

Mr Morrison said: “We are looking forward to welcoming them back as we are the many tourist and business travellers and skilled migrants and on Wednesday of this week we will again move forward.”

But Australia and South Korea also signed a defence deal reportedly worth £1billion.

The deal will see Changwon-based company Hanwha provide 30 self-propelled howitzer artillery weapons.

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President Moon’s visit to Australia marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

His visit Down Under was the first made by any international leader since borders reopened.