Unification Minister Hong Yong-pyo has emphasized the importance of integrating the languages of the two Koreas.

He made the remarks during a congratulatory speech that opened an international conference on the Korean language at the National Hangeul Museum in Seoul on Friday.
 
Hong said that King Sejong made Hangeul, or the Korean alphabet, in order to facilitate communication among people. He also noted the language difference between the two Koreas is among the biggest challenges facing many North Korean defectors settling in the South.  
 
During the speech, the minister touched on North Korea's latest provocation involving land mines in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). He said although inter-Korean relations remain strained and his heart heavy due to the incident, the Korean people's dream and passion for reunification must be kept alive.