Assemblyman Kim Dae-sik Meets Former Japanese Prime Minister Suga to Discuss Current Issues... Meeting with Prime Minister Ishiba Tomorrow

Saito Komyodo Representative and Key Political Figures Express Regret Over 'Sado Mine Memorial'

Kim Dae-sik, a member of the People Power Party representing Sasang-gu, Busan, who is visiting Japan for a meeting of the Korea-Japan Parliamentary League, announced on the 26th that he met with former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga (current chairman of the Korea-Japan Parliamentary League) to discuss current issues in Korea-Japan relations.

On the same day, he held in-depth discussions with key figures in Japanese politics, including Komeito Party leader Tetsuo Saito, on major issues in Korea-Japan relations, including the Sado mine issue. Kim is scheduled to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the 27th.

Kim Dae-sik, a member of the National Assembly visiting Japan (left), is shaking hands with former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on the 26th.

Kim Dae-sik, a member of the National Assembly visiting Japan for the Korea-Japan Parliamentarians' Union meeting (right), is greeting Saito Tetsuo, leader of the Komeito Party.

Kim expressed the view that preserving the dignity of and commemorating the Korean laborers who perished at the Sado mine is an important first step in building trust between Korea and Japan.

During his meetings, Kim expressed regret over the recent inadequate attitude shown by the Japanese government regarding the joint memorial for the Sado mine victims.

He also conveyed that Korea-Japan relations can truly move toward the future only if the Japanese side faces its past responsibilities and faithfully fulfills the promised commemoration of the victims.

Kim stated that in his meetings with former Prime Minister Suga and Komeito leader Saito, he proposed practical measures to resolve historical conflicts between the two countries and strengthen Korea-Japan cooperation.

He also emphasized the need to create opportunities to deepen mutual understanding and restore trust through education and exchanges among the next generation.

Kim Dae-sik said, “Without a correct remembrance and reflection on history, it is impossible to move toward a future-oriented relationship,” adding, “As a member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, I will represent the will of the people, demand responsible actions from the Japanese side, and continue dialogue persistently.”