ROK and Japanese leaders made progress on expanding cooperation but face constituents still skeptical of rapprochement
In a highly choreographed two-day visit to South Korea, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met with President Yoon Suk-yeol, addressing symbolic and practical matters to mend the frayed ties between Seoul and Tokyo. But the leaders carefully sidestepped politically charged and sensitive topics, signaling that challenges still lie ahead.
Kishida’s visit to Seoul took place a mere two months after Yoon’s trip to Tokyo, which followed Seoul’s decision to compensate Korean victims of Japanese wartime forced labor without the participation of Japanese firms. The swift timing of the visit surprised many observers, especially considering Japan’s preparations to host the upcoming G-7 summit.
In a highly choreographed two-day visit to South Korea, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met with President Yoon Suk-yeol, addressing symbolic and practical matters to mend the frayed ties between Seoul and Tokyo. But the leaders carefully sidestepped politically charged and sensitive topics, signaling that challenges still lie ahead.
Kishida’s visit to Seoul took place a mere two months after Yoon’s trip to Tokyo, which followed Seoul’s decision to compensate Korean victims of Japanese wartime forced labor without the participation of Japanese firms. The swift timing of the visit surprised many observers, especially considering Japan’s preparations to host the upcoming G-7 summit.
Get 30 days
of free access to
KoreaPro
Full access to all analysis
The KOREA PRO newsletter, every business day
Daily analysis on the top story of the day
The ability to suggest topics for coverage by our specialist team
Be smart about South Korea
Get full access to expert analysis and opinion.
Start now
No charges during your trial. Cancel anytime. A paid subscription will start after 30 days.