Japanese Foreign Minister "Serious Interest in Current Korean Situation... 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Event to Proceed as Planned"

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya stated on the 7th that he is "watching with serious interest" the chaotic situation caused by South Korea's December 3 emergency martial law and the subsequent impeachment crisis, and personally believes in the resilience of Korean democracy.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yeol (right) and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi. Courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

At a regular press conference that afternoon, when asked about the current situation in South Korea, Foreign Minister Iwaya said, "Since this is a domestic matter, I will refrain from commenting," and made the remarks.

Regarding the Korea-Japan relationship, which marks its 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization this year, Foreign Minister Iwaya said, "Although it has not always been smooth, the relationship greatly improved under the previous Kishida administration, and I want to maintain this momentum."

He evaluated, "The South Korean economy has developed remarkably, and according to some reports, South Korea's per capita Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has even surpassed Japan's," adding, "There is much that both countries can learn from each other in the Korea-Japan relationship." He further stated, "Of course, there are many challenges, but through persistent dialogue and efforts, we will resolve these issues one by one, reduce them, and expand areas where we can cooperate together."

Regarding the 60th anniversary commemorative events for diplomatic normalization this year, Foreign Minister Iwaya said, "We have confirmed that preparations are being made from the perspective that it is very important for the peoples and future of both countries," and added, "We will proceed with the commemorative projects as scheduled as much as possible."

The foreign ministries of both countries jointly selected and announced the official logo and slogan to be used for the 60th anniversary commemorative events last month.

Foreign Minister Iwaya is expected to visit South Korea around the 13th to hold a Korea-Japan foreign ministers' meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yeol. Regarding this, he said, "Although specific details about the visit to Korea have not yet been decided, if it materializes, we will maintain close communication between the two governments."