the floor to the representative of the Republic of Korea. Mr. LEE (Republic of Korea): My delegation deeply regrets that the North Korean representative has introduced a statement of a contentious nature to the plenary at this stage when the business of the spring session is being wound up. If I were to respond to every point raised by the North Korean representative, I would have to repeat the points already made in my Ambassador's statement on 12 April, which I think is superfluous. The statement made by the North Korean representative has once again disappointed us. The one-sided, uncompromising tone of the statement revealed to us that they are indeed out of touch with reality. While the world is changing rapidly and to a great extent, North Korea continues to turn its back on this reality. In this regard, my delegation wishes to clarify some points. The North Korean representative alleged that a concrete wall has been constructed on the southern boundary of the demilitarized zone, hence comparing it to the Berlin Wall, thus placing the blame on the South for blocking inter-Korean travel. The so-called concrete wall is nothing but an anti-tank barrier built for defensive purposes. Such military barriers also exist on the northern boundary of the demilitarized zone. The North Korean representative stated that the concrete wall extends for 240 kilometres. Where has this figure come from? The total length of the demilitarized zone itself is 250 kilometres, and the demilitarized zone itself is the land of "no crossing". Why would it then have been necessary to build a barrier of such a length? Under the present circumstances, where there are no exchanges of mail, telephone calls, not to mention freedom of travel, practical measures need to be taken for mutual opening and exchanges between the two sides of Korea. 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a statement made by a representative of the Republic of Korea at an international assembly, likely the United Nations. The speaker is addressing a statement made by the North Korean representative, criticizing its tone and accusing North Korea of being out of touch with reality. The speaker also clarifies some points, specifically regarding the construction of a concrete wall on the southern boundary of the demilitarized zone. The main focus is on the political and security situation between North and South Korea.

**Category**
International relations, Politics