South Korea to co-sponsor UN resolution on North Korean human rights

SEOUL: South Korea will co-sponsor an annual United Nations resolution on North Korean human rights, its foreign ministry said late on Saturday. The move comes despite concerns that it could strain relations with Pyongyang.

North Korea has long been accused of widespread rights abuses, including prison camps and restrictions on freedom of expression. The country has criticized the UN resolution, calling it politically motivated.

The decision was based on the government's commitment to improving human rights for North Koreans and consultations among agencies. South Korea had previously withdrawn support under a previous administration but resumed in 2023.

The EU- and Australia-drafted resolution is expected to be adopted at a UN Human Rights Council session later this month.