North Korea has strongly criticized a recent joint statement issued following a summit between South Korea and the European Union. Pyongyang accused Seoul of abandoning a “mask of peace” and reiterated its unwavering hostility towards the South. The statement followed the South Korea-EU summit where both sides expressed concerns over the escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula and reaffirmed their commitment to peace and stability. North Korea views the joint statement as evidence of South Korea’s continued antagonism and a rejection of dialogue. The North Korean statement emphasized that its fundamental policy towards South Korea remains unchanged, signaling a continuation of its hardline stance. This response underscores the deepening divide between the two Koreas and complicates efforts toward de-escalation and potential negotiations.