South Korea, Japan Defense Chiefs Pledge AI, Security Cooperation

South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani met in Seoul—the first visit by a Japanese defense minister in a decade—to strengthen bilateral security cooperation and explore collaboration in advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and aerospace. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and pledged continued trilateral cooperation with the United States to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, as well as to address the growing military ties between North Korea and Russia. The meeting coincided with the 60th anniversary of South Korea-Japan diplomatic relations and emphasized expanding strategic communication, regular consultations, personnel exchanges, and mutual visits, including cultural exchanges such as South Korea’s military band participating in Japan’s Self-Defense Forces music festival. The ministers underscored the importance of stable regional security cooperation amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, highlighted by recent military displays involving North Korea, Russia, and China. This dialogue builds on recent diplomatic efforts, including a summit between South Korean and Japanese leaders and upcoming trilateral military drills with the United States to enhance readiness against North Korean threats. Nakatani’s two-day visit also includes stops at the Seoul National Cemetery and the Korean Navy’s Second Fleet, reflecting deepening defense ties amid regional tensions.