Rodong Sinmun Monday observes in a signed commentary in this regard:

What this traitor uttered once again disclosed the ulterior intention of the conservative group to persistently stand against the inter-Korean dialogue and any process to improve the relations between the north and the south under the pretext of the nuclear issue. This is a brazen-faced mockery and blatant challenge to the public at home and abroad calling for the improved inter-Korean relations and a switchover in the policy of escalating the confrontation with the DPRK.

It is preposterous for Hyon to raise the settlement of the nuclear issue as a precondition for mending the inter-Korean relations whenever an opportunity presents itself.

The commentary explains the reason why there is no connection between the nuclear issue and the issue of the inter-Korean relations.

His balderdash that "it is impossible to have stable development of the inter-Korean relations" without the settlement of the nuclear issue is no more than a far-fetched assertion that could be made only by a wicked confrontation maniac and a despicable disturber of dialogue, the commentary says, and goes on:

The above-said reckless remarks made by Hyon are intended, in the final analysis, to divert elsewhere the accusing fingers pointed to the conservative group and seek a pretext for denying the dialogue.

It is by no means fortuitous that the working talks for resuming the tour of Mt. Kumgang are delayed.

If the inter-Korean relations are to make truly stable development, it is necessary for south Korean authorities to put an end to the policy of escalating the confrontation with compatriots and eliminate such confrontation maniacs as Hyon In Thaek, its wicked architect and executor.

The inter-Korean relations can never be saved from catastrophe as long as this confrontation maniac is allowed to stand in the way of improving the inter-Korean relations.