SEOUL: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol held a telephone conversation with Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Wednesday and agreed to a coordinated response together with the United States to the threats posed by North Korea.
Yoon welcomed Ishiba’s election as the leader of Japan’s ruling party, expressing optimism for enhanced collaboration on security and economic fronts. During the call, Yoon emphasized the importance of South Korea and Japan as partners who share common values and interests. He invited Ishiba to maintain close communication and deepen cooperation between their countries.
According to a statement from Yoon’s office, both leaders agreed that South Korea, Japan, and the United States must unite to address North Korea’s provocations. “The two leaders agreed that South Korea and Japan, alongside the United States, need to work together to respond to North Korea’s continued threats,” the statement read.
Ishiba, confirmed as prime minister just the day before, reiterated his commitment to fostering deeper ties with allied nations to confront the most significant security challenges Japan has faced since World War II.
He said his administration aims to build on the diplomatic momentum established by his predecessor, Fumio Kishida, and Yoon, who have worked to mend relations that had reached a low point in previous years.
Yoon’s administration has prioritized improving relations with Tokyo, focusing on overcoming historical grievances related to Japan’s wartime actions. With support from US President Joe Biden, both leaders have initiated a thaw in relations that has opened the door for closer security cooperation.
Both Yoon’s office and Japan’s foreign ministry confirmed that the two leaders plan to meet in person soon.
