Sanae Takaichi Korea-Japan Summit 2026: Bilateral Ties Deemed 'Critical'

Geopolitical clouds are gathering over East Asia, but Tokyo and Seoul appear to be drawing closer in response. On Friday, Jan. 9, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized that cooperation between the two neighbors is "more important than ever." This statement comes just days before her scheduled summit with President Lee Jae-myung on Tuesday, Jan. 13.

Sanae Takaichi Korea-Japan Summit 2026: Navigating Economic Security

According to reports from Yonhap, Takaichi hosted a delegation of South Korean lawmakers at her residence. She reportedly noted that the international situation, particularly regarding economic security, has become "increasingly grave." The delegation, led by Deputy Assembly Speaker Joo Ho-young, called for turning current regional challenges into "win-win" opportunities for both nations.

Reinforcing the Trilateral Alliance

A key theme of the meeting was the continuation of "shuttle diplomacy"—the practice of frequent reciprocal visits between leaders. Takaichi also underscored the necessity of trilateral cooperation with the United States. While the atmosphere was cordial, marked by the exchange of Korean cosmetics and gim (seaweed) as gifts, the underlying tension remains high as North Korea continues its provocative missile tests and drone incursions.