27th November, 2010

The World Council of Churches has expressed concern over escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula following an attack by North Korean artillery on Yeonpyeong island this week.

Two South Korean civilians and two marines died in the attack which North Korea said had been provoked by South Korean military exercises.  South Korea said it had conducted exercises but the shelling was directed away from North Korea. Meanwhile the US and Korea are expected to begin new military exercises on 27th November.

“The World Council of Churches’ unequivocal position has been that the use of force and military power will not resolve the problems that deprive the Korean people’s aspiration for peace and reconciliation,” said Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, WCC general secretary.

“The recent violent incidents also demonstrate once again how the unresolved divisions between the two Korean states pose a serious threat to peace and stability in the region. The whole people of the Korean Peninsula deserve a common future with justice and peace.”

Rev Dr Tveit said the WCC urged authorities in both North and South Korea “to refrain from actions that exacerbate the tensions”. 

“We pray for God to protect all who live under threat and sporadic violence and all who yearn for peace and good relations between neighbours. We call for the governments of North and South Korea to demonstrate the genuine will to return to peace negotiations that will lead to peaceful co-existence and mutual respect, and to engage in a new process of confidence-building measures at the earliest possible date.”

- DAVID ADAMS