SEOUL TO MAKE NEW OFFERS TO NORTH KOREA

South Korea is considering major concessions, including the release of dissidents jailed for illegally visiting Pyongyang, to advance its dialogue with North Korea, Yonhap news agency said Oct. 10. The news agency, quoting ``an informed government source,'' said that the proposals could include a ``progressive'' response to economic cooperation, United Nations membership, arms reductions, and to North Korean objections over annual US-South Korean military exercises.

All were key topics raised by North Korea during a first round of talks last month in Seoul between South Korean Prime Minister Kang Young Hoon and his northern counterpart, Yon Hyong Muk.

The news agency said that the proposals would be included in a message from South Korean President Roh Tae Woo to be delivered by Mr. Kang during his visit to Pyongyang from Oct. 16 to 19.