South Korean President-elect Lee Jae-myeon and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba held a phone conversation to discuss measures to boost bilateral ties. According to reports, the South Korean presidential spokesman and the Japanese Foreign Ministry both acknowledged the call. The discussion followed both leaders’ expressions of interest in continuing coordination on issues related to North Korea.

President Lee, who was elected last week as a left-leaning leader, stated that pragmatism will be essential to his diplomatic strategy. He emphasised the significance of continuing security cooperation with Japan and the United States. Lee informed Prime Minister Ishiba that he aimed to handle geopolitical difficulties through trilateral efforts with Tokyo and Washington, according to a statement from South Korean presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-ju.

The leaders recognised the importance of strong bilateral relations and expressed a willingness to meet in person soon to advance collaboration between South Korea and Japan. According to a statement released by Japan’s Foreign Ministry, Prime Minister Ishiba stated that relations with South Korea should be developed by joint efforts based on past government achievements. According to the Japanese side, the phone call lasted approximately 25 minutes.