South Korea’s Lee Makes First Japan Visit, Aiming to Deepen Bilateral Relations

Tokyo,  — South Korean President Lee Jae-myung arrived in Tokyo for his first official visit to Japan since taking office in June, marking a significant step toward mending historically strained ties between the two neighboring countries.

Lee met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in a summit aimed at fostering closer political, economic, and security cooperation. The visit comes amid shared challenges including North Korea’s nuclear threats, regional tensions with China, and ongoing economic pressures

As the two nations commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization, they emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral exchanges and boosting trilateral coordination with the United States. The leaders discussed potential agreements on easing visa restrictions, enhancing youth and cultural exchanges, and collaborating on economic growth initiatives.

Though historical grievances related to Japan’s wartime colonial rule continue to inform public sentiment, both leaders struck a pragmatic tone focused on future cooperation. Lee’s visit precedes an upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, highlighting the strategic significance of the trilateral partnership.

This summit signals a new chapter of diplomacy between Japan and South Korea, with the potential to bolster stability and prosperity in the region.