It also called on the authorities to immediately opt for dialogue between the north and the south of Korea.

The authorities are investigating a former core member of the Kyonggi-Inchon Confederation of Pomminryon and clamping down on him, said the statement.

This action, an extension of the suppression of the South Headquarters of Pomminryon, is an anachronistic and indiscriminate crackdown, quite contrary to the atmosphere for south-north dialogue, it said.

No one can check the trend of the fellow countrymen advancing toward reunification by their concerted efforts and the activities of Pomminryon.