Working Visit of Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan to Pyongyang, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, 26 to 27 May 2026

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan made a working visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) from 26 to 27 May 2026, at the invitation of DPRK Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui.

Minister Balakrishnan and Minister Choe had a bilateral meeting with wide-ranging candid discussions on regional and international issues, as well as developments on the Korean Peninsula. The Ministers reaffirmed the longstanding cordial and friendly relations between Singapore and the DPRK. Both sides marked the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025.

Minister Balakrishnan encouraged the DPRK to engage constructively with the region and keep channels open for dialogue. Minister Balakrishnan invited Minister Choe to attend the ASEAN Regional Forum, which DPRK is a member of. Minister Balakrishan was also hosted to a welcome banquet by Foreign Minister Choe.

Minister Balakrishnan called on Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly Jo Yong Won. Chairman Jo provided Minister Balakrishnan with an update on political developments in the DPRK. Minister Balakrishnan highlighted that amid ongoing global uncertainty, it was even more important for countries to maintain dialogue and communication to maintain peace and stability. Both Minister Balakrishnan and Chairman Jo recalled the historic visit by DPRK President of the State Affairs Kim Jong Un to Singapore for the first US-DPRK Summit in 2018.

Minister Balakrishnan departs for the Republic of Korea on 27 May 2026.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 

SINGAPORE 

27 MAY 2026