Ahn Gyu-back & Kim Yo Jong

Ahn Gyu-back: As South Korea's defense minister, Ahn Gyu-back publicly disclosed the 80-120 estimate, a rare move, while emphasizing the figure was unofficial and based on private research. He reaffirmed Seoul's non-nuclear stance.

Kim Yo Jong: Kim Yo Jong, sister of Kim Jong Un, dismissed the scaled-back U.S.-South Korean drills as still provocative, indicating North Korea's continued hardline stance.

Ahn Gyu-back: South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back confirmed the cancellation of the second phase of the drills and maintained close consultations with the US.

Kim Yo Jong: Kim Yo Jong dismissed the drill reduction as meaningless, signaling North Korea's official stance.

Ahn Gyu-back: South Korea's defense minister reaffirmed opposition to recognizing North Korea as a nuclear state, but the event may strain defense cooperation.

Kim Yo Jong: Kim Yo Jong dismissed Trump's overture, signaling North Korea's hardline stance and influencing the diplomatic trajectory.