South Korea Japan Summit Lee Takaichi 2026: Denuclearization Reaffirmed
On Jan 13, 2026, President Lee Jae-myung and PM Sanae Takaichi reaffirmed their commitment to denuclearization during the South Korea-Japan summit. Read about the strategic implications.
Cooperation is no longer optional in a shifting global landscape. According to Yonhap News, on January 13, 2026, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met for a high-stakes summit, reaffirming their commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
South Korea Japan Summit Lee Takaichi Strategic Pivot
President Lee emphasized that ties with Tokyo are as vital as those with Beijing. He urged both nations to cooperate while squarely facing historical grievances. This balanced approach comes as Lee's approval rating has climbed to 61%, providing him with significant political capital to navigate the complex geopolitical waters of East Asia.
Domestic Turmoil and Regional Security
The summit took place against a backdrop of domestic tension. In Seoul, a bus union strike over wages has suspended services, while the judiciary prepares for the sentencing request of former President Yoon Suk-yeol. Despite these internal challenges, Lee remains focused on a unified front with Japan to counter North Korean nuclear ambitions and maintain regional stability.
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