[On-site Video] "Doubts About Japan's Sincerity" Cancellation of Korea-Japan Summit, What Are Your Thoughts?

[Asia Economy Reporters Seunggon Han, PD Jingeun Yoon] "It seems President Moon's decision is the right one." , "There is a bit of regret as well."

The Blue House announced on the 19th that "President Moon Jae-in has decided not to visit Japan during the Tokyo Olympics."

Park Su-hyun, the Blue House Senior Secretary for Public Communication, stated at a briefing that "The governments of South Korea and Japan, keeping in mind the possibility of holding a Korea-Japan summit during the Tokyo Olympics, had meaningful discussions on progress regarding historical issues between the two countries and future-oriented cooperation directions." However, he added, "Although the talks proceeded in a friendly atmosphere and there was considerable understanding, it was still insufficient to be considered a successful summit, and after comprehensively considering other circumstances, this decision was made."

Citizens showed various reactions. A 30-year-old office worker, Mr. A, emphasized, "It is better that the President does not go (to Japan). So far, the Japanese side's media play regarding South Korea concerning President Moon is not a good behavior." He added, "If President Moon visits Japan, the disadvantages might outweigh the advantages."

A 50-year-old company employee, Mr. B, said, "I respect the President's opinion," but also stated, "Personally, I think it would not be a problem if the President went to Japan and met Prime Minister Suga." He emphasized, "I hope exchanges between South Korea and Japan become more active so that neither side becomes dominant and they maintain good relations."

The failure to hold a 'productive summit,' which was a condition set by the Blue House for the visit to Japan, appears to be related to the controversy over the 'offensive remarks' made by Soma, the Charg? d'Affaires of the Japanese Embassy.

Senior Secretary Park appeared on CBS Radio's 'Kim Hyun-jung's News Show' that morning and stressed that the possibility of a visit to Japan could be considered only if the Japanese side officially announces disciplinary action against Charg? d'Affaires Soma.

Meanwhile, the Blue House said, "Since the Tokyo Olympics is a festival of peace for people around the world, we hope Japan will host the Olympics safely and successfully," and added, "Although our athletes face various difficult conditions, we expect them to fully demonstrate their accumulated skills, perform well, and return home healthy."