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Trump dominates historic summit between Japan and South Korea
Historically: South Korea's President Lee and Japan's Premier Ishiba announce a new era of cooperation. However, Trump's influence on bilateral diplomacy remains noticeable.
Trump dominates historic summit between Japan and South Korea
Tokyo, Japan - History was written last week. South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung went on his first trip abroad to have bilateral conversations. However, instead of traveling to the USA like his predecessors, Japan - the former colonial lord - was his first destination. This represents a remarkable change in the diplomatic alignment of South Korea.
A turning point in relationships
After a summit between Lee and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Tokyo and Seoul issued their first joint statement in 17 years pledging deeper cooperation on AI, trade and the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. They also announced the creation of a joint working group to address challenges such as an aging population and declining birth rates.
A sign of friendship
Not only was the content of the agreements, but the friendly atmosphere between the two heads of state. "This is our second meeting and I have the feeling that we are close friends," Lee said about his Japanese counterpart. This positive application of hostility to friendship cannot be overlooked and could have the potential to change the relationship between the two countries sustainably.
The shadows of history
The colonial line -up by Japan, which lasted over three decades in the first half of the 20th century, has long influenced the relationships between the two countries. In 2023, Lee still criticized his predecessor, who had participated in a historic summit with Japan, and described him as a "Marionette Tokios". However, since he took office two months ago, Lee has taken a more pragmatic attitude and described Japan on August 15th - the day of liberation in South Korea from the Japanese rule - as a "indispensable partner" for economic growth.
Insights into the geopolitical situation
This latest approach is not only a diplomatic affair, but also reflects the changing geopolitical situation in the western Pacific. Both countries are now facing a more volatile relationship with Washington, especially in view of the unpredictable foreign policy of US President Donald Trump. His trading tariffs and demands for higher defense spending have once added stable alliances and put the former "iron" alliance between South Korea and the USA.
Security concerns and economic challenges
Uncertainty about the security guarantees of the United States is a central topic. "After betrayal in Ukraine, many Americans wonder what an American security guarantee really means," said Jeffrey Kingston, professor of Asian studies at the University of Tokyo. In Japan, Russia's invasion of Ukraine is often perceived as a warning. South Korea and Japan also fear for the growing nuclear skills of North Korea and its increasing connections to Russia.
Conclusion: A new beginning in bilateral relationships
Both countries must also carefully manage relations with China, both nations' top trading partner. Despite the challenges, the newfound spirit of cooperation must be maintained, especially when Ishiba may have to step down due to political difficulties. The continuation of this positive development depends on the successors who should further promote the new relationship between Japan and South Korea.