South Korea proposes holding reunions of war-divided families at NKorean mountain next month

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea has proposed that the rival Koreas start arranging reunions next month for families separated by the 1950-53 Korean War.

North Korea last week agreed to resume the reunions by letting South Korea choose dates for the humanitarian program. The move was the latest in a recent series of conciliatory gestures North Korea has taken in a sharp contrast from last spring when the country raised tension with threats of nuclear wars.

Analysts say the North needs better ties with the outside world to help draw foreign investment and aid.

Seoul's Unification Ministry said Monday that it sent a message proposing that the reunions to take place from Feb. 17-22 at a North Korean mountain.

Seoul has proposed working-level talks on Jan. 29 to discuss details about the reunions.