Seoul: South Korea expressed optimism on Tuesday about continuing the positive momentum in its relationship with Japan following the historic election of Sanae Takaichi as Japan's first female prime minister. The South Korean government is keen to work with Japan's new leadership to foster a future-oriented partnership.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's foreign ministry spokesperson Lee Jae-woong emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication and cooperation with Japan's new Cabinet. Lee highlighted the significance of both countries working together as neighboring nations and global partners amid rapidly evolving geopolitical dynamics and trade orders.
Earlier in the day, Takaichi secured a key vote from Japan's lower house of parliament, followed by another from the upper house, officially confirming her as the country's prime minister. Her election introduces potential uncertainties in the bilateral relations between Seoul and Tokyo, particularly concerning her approach to sensitive historical issues.
Takaichi, previously an economic security minister, has held firm stances on historical issues related to Japan's colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula and territorial claims over South Korea's Dokdo islets. Her frequent visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors war criminals, have been a point of contention for South Korea and China.
Notably, during a recent fall festival, Takaichi opted to send an offering to the Yasukuni Shrine instead of visiting in person, signaling a cautious approach in anticipation of her election victory. This move suggests a potential shift in her diplomatic strategy.
South Korea plans to send a congratulatory message to Takaichi and coordinate with Tokyo for an initial discussion between President Lee Jae Myung and the new Japanese prime minister, likely to occur over the phone. An in-person meeting could take place at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, should Takaichi decide to attend.
Additionally, Japan's hosting of this year's trilateral summit with South Korea and China provides another potential opportunity for a meeting between the two leaders. However, Tokyo has not yet released details regarding the summit's schedule.