Japan-Republic of Korea Relations
Japan-ROK Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
January 13, 2025


On January 13, commencing at 3:35 p.m. for approximately 95 minutes, Mr. Iwaya Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan held a bilateral meeting with H.E. Cho Tae-yul, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK). The summary of the bilateral meeting is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Iwaya extended his sympathies on the airplane accident which occurred in Muan International Airport in the ROK at the end of last year. He also conveyed his appreciation for the ROK’s hospitality for this visit.
- The two ministers reemphasized that Japan and the ROK are important neighbors which should work as partners on challenges in the international community, and that in light of the current strategic environment, the importance of the Japan-ROK relations remains unchanged. In marking the start of the 60th anniversary of the normalization of the Japan-ROK relations this year, they confirmed the importance of maintaining cooperation between Japan and the ROK. They also concurred to further support people-to-people exchange, especially among the youth who build the future of Japan-ROK relations, for this milestone year. Furthermore, they concurred on supporting each other on significant events which will be held in both countries this year, including the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan and APEC 2025 in the ROK.
- The two ministers exchanged views on regional situations, such as our policies toward North Korea. Regarding North Korea, they shared serious concerns on its nuclear and missile activities, and further advancement of its military cooperation with Russia including the engagement of North Korean troops in combat against Ukraine. They reaffirmed that they would continue to work closely together between Japan and ROK, as well as among Japan, the ROK and the U.S. Minister Iwaya expressed his appreciation for the ROK’s continued support regarding the abductions issue.
- Furthermore, regarding the cooperation among Japan, the ROK, and the U.S., the two Ministers concurred to proactively work on the issues on the Indo-Pacific and economic security, in addition to policies toward North Korea.
- The two ministers confirmed that they will continue to communicate closely with one another to maintain and progress the positive atmosphere of Japan-ROK relations.