By Korea.net Honorary Reporter Nadine Postigo from the Philippines

My love for Korean pop music, TV shows and movies began in late 2008. Through the influence of Korea's entertainment scene, I became more aware of Korea as a travel hotspot, its heritage and history, language, food and especially the divide between South and North Korea.

I wondered if I'd ever have the chance to witness the peaceful reunification of the two Koreas in my lifetime. It seems far away, right? However, right now it also feels like 2018 is heading toward a positive direction. We saw this during the PyeongChang Winter Olympics as the two Koreas marched under one flag and when they competed together in the women’s ice hockey tournament. Now, North and South Korea will hold their first talks in many years. I think that’s a feat.

Call this either a simple way of thinking or else having a hopeful disposition, but there's one keyword that came to my mind when I read about the upcoming talks: coexistence.

If this significant dialogue ends on a positive note, which I’m wishing it will, this can lessen tensions and hopefully lead to a more peaceful existence between the two parties.

Personally, one of the things I wish this dialogue to do is to open the door for families that were separated during the Korean War (1950-1953) and give them the chance to be finally reunited. I still remember what our tour guide in Busan told us about the Korean War, about the way in which refugees who were escaping from the north waited in Busan to see if their families or friends were also able to escape and to join them. Many waited at the Yeongdodaegyo Bridge in vain. That heart-wrenching story just stayed with me.

I know that there are a lot of things to consider and to factor in. It has been more than just a bumpy road that lead to this moment. Nonetheless, I sincerely hope these significant talks can be the start of something good for all Koreans everywhere.

wisdom117@korea.kr

* This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.