Are South Korea and Japan Planning a Summit in Late August?
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Synopsis
As South Korea and Japan gear up for a potential summit later this month, both nations are keen on revitalizing diplomatic relations. This anticipated meeting between President Lee Jae Myung and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba could signal a significant shift in their bilateral ties. Stay tuned for updates as arrangements unfold!
Key Takeaways
- South Korea and Japan are coordinating a summit in Tokyo.
- The meeting may occur around August 23, 2023.
- This will be President Lee's first visit to Japan since taking office.
- Last discussions between the leaders took place during the G7 summit in Canada.
- Both nations aim to strengthen their diplomatic relations.
Seoul, Aug 9 (NationPress) The offices of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba are in discussions to organize a summit in Tokyo later this month, according to a report from Japan on Saturday.
The anticipated meeting is likely to occur around August 23, as reported by Japan's Asahi Shimbun, citing several government sources.
When inquired about the report, Kang Yu-jung, the South Korean presidential spokesperson, confirmed that both sides have been working on the summit, though the exact schedule remains unconfirmed.
If this summit takes place, it will mark Lee's first visit to Japan since he assumed office in early June, indicating a potential revival of shuttle diplomacy between the leaders of the two nations, according to Yonhap news agency.
Lee and Ishiba last had an in-person discussion on June 17 during the Group of Seven summit in Canada, where they explored avenues to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance trilateral cooperation with the United States.
Additionally, Lee is expected to visit Washington for his inaugural summit with US President Donald Trump later this month, although the presidential office has yet to disclose the timing.
"The arrangements for both the South Korea-Japan summit and the South Korea-US summit are still being finalized and have not been confirmed. We will provide updates once they are finalized," Kang informed reporters.
Last month, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met with Ishiba, during which the Japanese leader reiterated his commitment to nurturing and enhancing positive relations with Seoul.
Ishiba made these comments during a brief 15-minute meeting with Cho at the prime minister's residence, as shared by Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi during a press briefing.
"While sustaining and building upon the positive momentum in South Korea-Japan relations, I also aim to advance cooperation among South Korea, the US, and Japan," Ishiba was quoted saying.
Hayashi expressed his belief that the two nations have engaged in close communication since the Lee Jae Myung administration began, describing South Korea and Japan as "crucial neighbors and partners" on numerous global issues.
Cho also discussed with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, emphasizing South Korea's efforts to strengthen ties with "friendly nations" under the Lee administration, indicating a desire to maintain the positive trajectory in bilateral relations with Japan.
In a follow-up meeting with South Korean journalists in Tokyo, the South Korean foreign minister highlighted the importance of developing bilateral relations in a forward-looking manner.
Point of View
The coordination of a summit between South Korea and Japan signifies an important step towards mending ties between two historically significant neighbors. The ongoing dialogues reflect a commitment to addressing mutual concerns and enhancing collaboration on international platforms.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date of the proposed summit between South Korea and Japan?
The proposed summit is likely to take place around August 23, as reported by Japanese media.
Who are the leaders involved in the summit discussions?
The discussions involve South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
When did the last meeting between the two leaders occur?
The last in-person meeting occurred on June 17 during the Group of Seven summit in Canada.
What are the intentions behind this summit?
The summit aims to advance bilateral ties and enhance trilateral cooperation with the United States.
Is there a confirmed schedule for the South Korea-US summit?
No, the schedule for the South Korea-US summit has not yet been confirmed.
