SEOUL, South Korea — North Korea ushered in 2009 with an appeal to unite around leader Kim Jong Il but broke with tradition by not criticizing the U.S.
North Korea traditionally marks New Year’s Day with a joint editorial by the country’s three major state-run newspapers representing its communist party, military and youth militia force.
Outside observers pore over the statement for insight on the reclusive country’s policy direction.
This year’s message accused South Korea of an “anachronistic confrontation policy” and stressed the need to strengthen the military. But it lacked the usual criticisms of the U.S., an indication the country may hope to build up ties with the incoming government of President-elect Barack Obama. The Associated Press
