President Lee Calls for Closer Korea-Japan Relations

President Lee Jae-myung expressed hope on June 26 for improved relations between South Korea and Japan, stating, "There is a perception that Korea and Japan are 'close yet distant countries.' I hope our relationship can improve to become 'close and even closer countries.'"

During a meeting at the Blue House with Ryota Takeda, the President of the Japan-Korea Parliamentary Union, Lee noted that international relations have become increasingly complex. The meeting also included Joo Ho-young, President of the Korea-Japan Parliamentary Union (People Power Party), and Min Hong-cheol, Secretary General (Democratic Party).

Lee emphasized that enhancing Korea-Japan relations would benefit both nations, especially during challenging times. He highlighted the importance of exchanges not only between citizens and high-level officials but also among lawmakers, urging for more active engagement.

Takeda responded, calling the ongoing shuttle diplomacy between the two countries "a remarkable achievement and a new role model." He referenced a report from Japanese media indicating that over 70% of the public in both countries trust each other, stressing the need to maintain and strengthen this positive relationship.

He particularly noted that SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won recently stated during a meeting with Japanese business leaders that the relationship between Korea and Japan is a "must" rather than a "choice." Takeda added, "As AI and semiconductors underpin the global economy, our countries are inextricably linked in technology cooperation."

Takeda also pointed out that both nations are geopolitically surrounded by nuclear powers in Northeast Asia, emphasizing that, amid global instability, Korea and Japan should work together to stabilize the world order through their "middle power" alliance.

In a lighter moment, Takeda remarked that President Lee's glasses appeared to be made in Sabae, known as the birthplace of Japanese eyewear, and humorously introduced his companion, Tomomi Inada, as a "lawmaker from Sabae."