Korea-Japan Leaders Meet in Busan... Lee: "I Hope We Become Truly Close in Terms of Security"

President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Hold Summit
Lee: "Let's Establish Shuttle Diplomacy and Visit Each Other Frequently"
Ishiba: "I Hope for a Close Relationship with Emotional Connection"

President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba are moving together for a commemorative photo at the Nurimaru APEC House in Busan on the 30th. Photo by Yonhap News

On the 30th, President Lee Jae-myung met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and said, "I hope our countries can become closer in terms of security." Prime Minister Ishiba also mentioned security, expressing his hope for "a very close Korea-Japan relationship."

During their summit at the Nurimaru APEC House in Haeundae-gu, Busan, President Lee said, "I took a special train from Seoul, and I think the time it took was almost the same as, or perhaps even shorter than, the time it took for you to fly from Japan to Busan. I hope that Korea and Japan will become as close emotionally, economically, socio-culturally, and in terms of security as they are physically."

President Lee added, "When we first met, I said that Korea and Japan are like neighbors sharing a front yard. As the world becomes increasingly challenging, I believe it is truly important for close neighbors to maintain order and exchange. I hope we can establish shuttle diplomacy so that Korea and Japan can visit each other frequently and promise mutual development."

Ishiba: "Beyond Economy and Security, I Hope for Emotional Connection"

Prime Minister Ishiba responded, "This is such a close place that you can see Tsushima on a clear day. As you mentioned, it only takes two hours by plane to get to Busan. From my hometown, I think it would take just one hour."

He continued, "I hope that we can build a very close Korea-Japan relationship that not only addresses easily relatable social issues and economic matters, but also security concerns and, furthermore, fosters emotional connection. I hope that today's summit will serve as a cornerstone for a new Korea-Japan relationship."

Prime Minister Ishiba, who has announced that he will step down after the new president of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party is elected on October 4, also shared his thoughts during the summit. He said, "Today marks 365 days since I took office as Prime Minister. I find it very meaningful to conclude my final diplomatic engagement with this summit with you, Mr. President."

Meanwhile, the two leaders adopted a joint statement during the summit, agreeing to operate a consultative body to discuss common issues facing both countries, such as low birth rates and an aging population.