Japan-Republic of Korea Relations
Japan-ROK Summit Meeting
January 13, 2026
(Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
(Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
(Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
On January 13, commencing at 2 p.m. for approximately 90 minutes, Ms. TAKAICHI Sanae, Prime Minister of Japan, held a Summit Meeting with H.E. Mr. LEE Jae Myung, President of the Republic of Korea (ROK), who is visiting Japan. The summary of the meeting is as follows (The small-group meeting commenced at 2 p.m. and lasted for approximately 20 minutes; the plenary meeting commenced at 2:30 p.m. and lasted for approximately 70 minutes). After the meeting, the two leaders held a joint press occasion.
- At the outset, Prime Minister TAKAICHI welcomed President Lee’s visit which is the first opportunity of “shuttle diplomacy” of this year, and expressed her intention to develop the Japan-ROK relations to greater height, starting with his visit.
- The two leaders had a candid exchange of views on the overall Japan-ROK relations.
- The two leaders shared a recognition of the strategic importance of the Japan-ROK relations, and affirmed that they should work together to play a role in ensuring the stability of the region. Also, the importance of strategic coordination including security cooperation between Japan and the ROK as well as among Japan, the ROK and the U.S., was discussed.
- The two leaders concurred on deepening the discussion going forward among relevant ministries in order to promote strategic and mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of economy and economic security. Additionally, they held in-depth discussions on the cooperation regarding supply chain.
- The two leaders concurred to draft a document to accelerate the cooperation to date on dealing with transnational organized frauds.
- The two leaders welcomed the progress in the coordination between the two countries toward cooperation on DNA testing, regarding the remains discovered at Chosei Coal Mine in Ube City, Yamaguchi Prefecture.
- The two leaders exchanged views on regional situations. They discussed their policies toward North Korea, including the nuclear and missile issues, and reaffirmed that they would work closely together between Japan and the ROK as well as among Japan, the ROK and the U.S. toward the complete denuclearization of North Korea. Prime Minister TAKAICHI also requested President Lee’s continued understanding and cooperation toward the immediate resolution of the abductions issue, and the two leaders concurred on the importance of such efforts.
- The two leaders concurred to continue close communication between the two governments going forward, including the active promotion of “shuttle diplomacy.”