South Korea, Japan Leaders Strengthen Ties, Coordinate with U.S.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba held their first phone call, agreeing to strengthen bilateral ties and trilateral cooperation with the United States amid growing geopolitical challenges. The leaders emphasized the importance of a mature relationship based on mutual respect, trust, and responsibility, noting the significance of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization between their countries. While the call avoided sensitive historical disputes, Lee highlighted a pragmatic and consistent approach to unresolved issues, signaling continuity in the current policies toward Japan. Both leaders acknowledged the need for close coordination on North Korea, including addressing abductions of Japanese nationals, and agreed to arrange an in-person meeting to discuss their relationship further. This dialogue aims to stabilize and advance South Korea-Japan relations while maintaining strong trilateral ties with the United States. The call reflects Lee's intent to maintain trilateral security cooperation and pursue mutual prosperity despite previous criticisms of his predecessor's diplomacy toward Japan.