Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi arrived in South Korea on Monday for his first official visit since taking office. He began his trip with a symbolic visit to the Seoul National Cemetery, highlighting Japan’s intent to maintain strong ties with South Korea despite the political turmoil following President Yoon Suk-yeol’s martial law declaration and subsequent impeachment.

Separately, trade ministry officials from both countries held talksto discuss innovation policy, R&D collaboration, and technology cooperation under the incoming Trump administration. The discussions resulted in agreements to expand joint research initiatives and strengthen industrial ties to address evolving economic and technological