Lee Jae-myung Sanae Takaichi Summit 2026: Drum Diplomacy Beats in Nara
President Lee Jae-myung and PM Sanae Takaichi played drums to BTS's 'Dynamite' during the Lee Jae-myung Sanae Takaichi Summit 2026 in Nara, signaling warm ties.
They swapped formal suits for drumsticks and stiff protocols for a backbeat. On Jan 13, 2026, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi performed an impromptu drum concert following their summit in Nara, Japan. This marks the first time in 15 years that a South Korean leader has visited a Japanese city outside Tokyo for a bilateral meeting.
Lee Jae-myung Sanae Takaichi Summit 2026: A Rhythmic Rapport
According to Cheong Wa Dae, the two leaders sat at a drum kit manufactured by Pearl to play 'Dynamite' by the global K-pop sensation BTS and 'Golden' from the Netflix series 'KPop Demon Hunters'. PM Takaichi, a former heavy metal drummer during her college years, reportedly coached President Lee through the performance, creating an exceptionally warm and friendly atmosphere.
I fulfilled a lifelong dream today. Ever since I was young, I've wanted to play the drums.
Dressed in matching blue uniforms featuring their names and national flags, the leaders' performance symbolized a new era of friendship. The event concluded with the exchange of signed drumsticks. Presidential spokesperson Kim Nam-joon stated that the session was specially arranged by the Japanese side to showcase the deep personal rapport between the two heads of state.
Strategic Milestone in Nara
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