North Korea decries medical aid, says ‘nothing to give or receive’ from Seoul

North Korean leader Kim’s sister said the neighbour must show ‘respect’ to mend ties instead of indulging in ‘political provocation’

Published: 2:11pm, 8 Oct 2026

North Korea’s Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of ‌leader Kim Jong-un, denounced on Thursday South Korea’s plans to provide medical equipment aid to Pyongyang, calling it a “political provocation” and violation of its sovereignty.

In a statement carried by state media KCNA, Kim criticised Seoul for publicising its efforts to obtain United Nations sanctions exemptions for a medical aid package, saying Seoul had “insulted” North Korea by referring to shortages of medicines and medical equipment and deteriorating health conditions.

“The ⁠hostile nature of inter-Korean relations and South Korea’s identity can never change,” Kim said, adding that North Korea’s position ‌is that there is “nothing to give or receive” from South Korea.

Kim, a senior official in the North’s ruling Workers’ Party, said Seoul’s aid proposal was intended to showcase ‌South Korea’s “goodwill” in contrast to North Korea’s rejection of the help, calling the effort a ⁠politically motivated scheme.