TWO unity initiatives between North and South Korea were thrown into doubt yesterday as peace marchers sought a safe path across the militarised border.

Thirty female activists plan to walk across the heavily defended demilitarised zone (DMZ) between the two states.

But the may have to change their plans after authorities on both sides said they could not guarantee their safety.

Although both governments have approved the march, organiser Christine Ahn said that officials in Pyongyang had told her that without a formal letter from Seoul approving a crossing at Panmunjom — usually reserved for government missions — they may have to cross at another location.

UN secretary-general Ban Ki Moon’s planned visit to the Kaesong industrial park north of the DMZ was cancelled yesterday after North Korea withdrew its invitation to the former South Korean foreign minister.

Pyongyang gave no reason when it told the UN of its decision, Mr Ban said.