South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has stressed his intention to promote ties with Japan. He also expressed readiness to play a mediating role to ease tensions between Japan and China.
Lee held a news conference on Wednesday, exactly one year after a short-lived martial law declaration issued by his predecessor.
Asked about Japan-South Korea relations, he said some issues should be discussed. Specifically, he cited the cancellation of a plan for Japan to support refueling of South Korean air force aircraft at its Naha Air Base in Okinawa Prefecture.
He also referred to the cancellation of the dispatch of a South Korean military band for an event hosted by Japan’s Defense Ministry.
Lee noted that the United States and China generally appear confrontational to each other, but that in some areas, they seem to cooperate and communicate. He added that the same is true of the relationship between Japan and South Korea.
He also said unresolved issues should be discussed and worked through little by little. He added that bilateral relations should continue to move forward, and pledged his commitment to pursuing a good partnership in a positive, future-oriented manner.
Lee was also asked about China’s reaction to remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae on Taiwan.
Last month, Takaichi said in the Diet that a Taiwan emergency involving the use of force could be considered a situation threatening the survival of Japan.
Lee said taking sides would end up escalating the dispute. He added that where possible, it is desirable to play a role in mediating and coordination to minimize the conflict.