Takaichi and Lee Jae Myung Summit 2026: 'Drummer Diplomacy' Hits a High Note in Nara
Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung engaged in 'Drummer Diplomacy' during their 2026 summit in Nara, jamming to K-pop hits.
They swapped formal handshakes for drumsticks. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung concluded the first day of their 2026 summit with an unexpected K-pop jam session, signaling a rhythmic shift in Seoul-Tokyo relations.
Takaichi Lee Jae Myung Summit 2026: A New Beat for Diplomacy
According to Reuters, the two leaders played along to global hits from BTS and Kpop Demon Hunters on Tuesday night in Nara. Takaichi, a well-known heavy metal fan and drummer, praised Lee's quick learning, noting he picked up the sticks in just 5 to 10 minutes. On Wednesday morning, Lee posted on X that while their tempos differed slightly, they worked together to find a shared rhythm for a future-oriented relationship.
Deepening Security and Economic Ties
Beyond the viral photo-op, Takaichi and Lee reaffirmed their commitment to deepening security and economic cooperation amid rising East Asian tensions. The leaders agreed to maintain shuttle diplomacy, with the Japanese PM scheduled to visit South Korea next. However, domestic reactions remain mixed; some Japanese citizens pointed to stagnant wages and economic struggles, questioning the timing of such celebratory displays.
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