S. Korea says hopes relations between US, DPRK leaders can lead to 'meaningful' dialogue

SEOUL - The South Korean presidential office Blue House said Monday that it hopes the relationship between US President Donald Trump and DPRK leader Kim Jong-un will lead to meaningful dialogue and discussions on advancing peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

The Blue House made the remarks following Trump's statement on Sunday that he had instructed the Pentagon to substantially scale down the Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercise, citing his good relationship with Kim.

To this end, the South Korean government will make necessary diplomatic efforts as a "pace-maker" in close coordination with the United States, the Blue House said.

Seoul and Washington have closely coordinated on maintaining a firm combined defense posture as well as joint exercises and training, and will continue to coordinate on specific details, it added.