South Korean President Lee Jae Myung Meets Japanese PM Ishiba in Tokyo

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung arrived in Tokyo on August 23, 2023, for a significant summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. This meeting aims to enhance cooperation between the two nations while acknowledging their complex historical relationship. Following this summit, Lee is scheduled to travel to Washington for discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump.

This summit marks Lee’s second in-person meeting with Ishiba, the first occurring during the Group of Seven summit in Canada earlier this year. It is particularly noteworthy as Lee has chosen Japan as a diplomatic destination before heading to Washington, a departure from the typical practice for South Korean presidents, who often prioritize meetings with the United States.

Strengthening Ties Amid Historical Challenges

In a joint interview with four major Japanese newspapers, including the Asahi Shimbun and the Mainichi Shimbun, Lee emphasized his desire to strengthen collaboration in security and economic sectors. He described his visit as an opportunity to lay the groundwork for “future-oriented” ties, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan.

“Korea-Japan relations simultaneously contain aspects of confrontation, cooperation and mutual tolerance. What’s important is to identify as many mutually beneficial elements as possible,” Lee stated in the interview.

Lee expressed that it is essential not to overlook the positive aspects of the relationship due to historical grievances. His approach reflects a commitment to fostering a dialogue that balances both cooperation and acknowledgment of past issues.

Upcoming Meeting with President Trump

On August 24, Lee will meet with Japanese lawmakers before departing for Washington for his summit with Trump. This meeting will be significant as it follows a recent trade agreement between South Korea and the United States, which aims to reduce tariffs on South Korean goods from an initially proposed 25% to a more favorable 15% in exchange for significant investments and market access.

According to National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac, the discussions between Lee and Trump are expected to cover “alliance modernization.” This initiative aims to enhance the joint defense posture between Seoul and Washington, particularly in light of the United States’ focus on countering an increasingly assertive China.

Analysts suggest that the U.S. may propose adjustments to its military presence in South Korea, potentially including reductions in ground troop numbers as part of the modernization discussions. This meeting symbolizes a crucial moment for both nations as they navigate their alliances in an evolving geopolitical landscape.

As Lee embarks on these diplomatic engagements, the outcomes of these talks may significantly influence the future trajectory of South Korean and Japanese relations, as well as the broader dynamics of the U.S.-South Korea alliance.