Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reaffirmed their commitment to building a “future-oriented and stable” partnership during their first bilateral meeting in Gyeongju on October 30. The two leaders agreed to continue shuttle diplomacy and enhance trilateral cooperation with the United States.
Takaichi emphasized that 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and South Korea, saying that developing ties based on mutual trust and shared interests would benefit both nations. “Japan and South Korea are important neighbors to each other,” she said, adding that collaboration in regional security and economic matters remains a top priority.
President Lee echoed her remarks, underscoring the need for practical cooperation amid global uncertainties and shifting trade dynamics. He stressed that both countries share similar challenges and should work together to address them.
The 45-minute meeting avoided contentious historical issues that have strained ties in the past. Both leaders instead focused on stability, economic cooperation, and reinforcing trilateral relations with Washington. Despite her conservative reputation, Takaichi signaled continuity in maintaining positive momentum in Japan-South Korea relations, while Lee reaffirmed his focus on pragmatic diplomacy centered on national interests.
