VP Pence out to counter North Korean ‘propaganda’

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — Vice President Mike Pence is trying to counter North Korean “propaganda” around the Winter Olympics with his own symbolism and rhetoric, shining a spotlight on the North’s nuclear weapons program and human rights abuses.

Pence, who will lead the U.S. delegation to the games’ opening ceremonies on Friday, met Thursday with South Korean President Moon Jae-in to press for a more cleareyed approach toward the nuclear-armed neighbor to the north. Moon has looked at the games as an opportunity to pursue a diplomatic opening with North Korea — a move the vice president cautioned against.

Pence avoided public criticism of Moon, congratulating South Korea on hosting the games and pledging continued support in addressing the North’s nuclear threat. But privately, officials said, Pence expressed concern to Moon about his more conciliatory tone toward North Korea.

Moon, for his part, took the opportunity to highlight the visit of North Korean officials to the global competition, referring to the “Olympic Games of peace.” He added his hope that it becomes “a venue that leads to dialogue for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.”

The games will be attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s sister and other senior officials. And female ice hockey players from both Koreas will compete as one team.