This was clarified by the Institute for Modern Economic Studies of south Korea on March 18.

88 experts on issues of reunification, diplomacy and security were polled by the institute over what is a top priority task for building confidence between the north and the south recently and 46.6 percent of the respondents said it was to lift the "May 24 step".

79.5 percent of the respondents, in particular, underscored the need to expand dialogue and cooperation in an effort to improve the north-south relations and achieve the reunification of the country and 61.4 percent of them noted that the tour of Mt. Kumgang is a symbol of reconciliation and peace between the north and the south.