Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Continued growth in S. Korea-Japan relations anticipated throughout 2024
By Kim Hyun-bin
Bilateral normalization enhances economic, diplomatic and military ties
Editor’s note
This article is the third in a four-part series that provides an analysis of South Korea’s diplomatic situation with neighboring countries at the start of 2024. ― ED.
Under President Yoon Suk Yeol's leadership, South Korea and Japan are witnessing a notable enhancement in their relations, marked by increased economic interactions, strengthened diplomatic ties and strategic alignment in the military domain. Many experts anticipate that this positive trend will continue throughout 2024.
"Up until this year, the relationship has consistently improved, and there is a high possibility that the level and depth of cooperation will continue," said Park Won-gon, a professor at Ewha Womans University.
"Not only in the defense aspect but overall, relations have improved to the point of shuttle diplomacy in all fields, the relationship has normalized."
On the diplomatic front, President Yoon's administration has undertaken high-level talks with Japan to bolster ties and address historical grievances. There has been increased dialogue on regional and global issues through diplomatic channels. Agreements on cultural exchanges and educational partnerships underscore a shared commitment to building people-to-people connections and mutual understanding.
“This year, due to the distortion of the South Korea-Japan relationship during the Moon Jae-in administration, I think there might be continuous efforts to address and resolve that distortion,” said Kim Young-ho, a political science professor at Yonsei University.
“There are new variables with the upcoming U.S. presidential election and our general elections; there may be various factors to consider. Still, I believe that Yoon government's approach to Japan will remain consistent.”
Progress has been made via efforts to address historical issues, with both nations acknowledging the importance of reconciliation. The establishment of a joint historical research commission signifies a joint commitment to confronting shared challenges transparently.
"Given the very different historical perceptions between South Korea and Japan, it's not possible to conclude or fully resolve them. The best approach is to manage these issues to prevent them from damaging the overall relationship," Park said.
In the military domain, South Korea and Japan have taken steps to enhance strategic cooperation in response to evolving regional security challenges. Joint military exercises and intelligence-sharing agreements address shared concerns over regional stability, aiming to promote a united front for peace and stability.
The trilateral alliance with the United States has played a crucial role in strengthening the military dimension of the South Korea-Japan relationship. Trilateral dialogues and joint defense initiatives create a framework for coordinated responses to emerging security challenges, fostering a sense of collective security among the three nations.
“The military cooperation between Korea, the U.S. and Japan is no longer a matter of something we may or may not do but rather something we must do in terms of regional security,” Kim said.
“Especially for us, taking a proactive stance on the U.S.-Korea-Japan military cooperation is crucial. As a force in the region, South Korea-U.S.-Japan security cooperation not only contributes to regional security but also the security of North Korea."
Both nations are actively engaging in economic collaboration, actively nurturing trade partnerships and investment opportunities. Comprehensive bilateral agreements have streamlined economic exchanges, fostering mutual growth and stability. Collaborative efforts in technology, innovation and infrastructure development are establishing a strong foundation for ongoing cooperation.
The recent expansion of the South Korea-Japan Economic Cooperation Forum is also playing a role in fostering dialogue and identifying shared economic interests. Commitments to resolving historical trade disputes reflect a mutual determination to overcome challenges and build a more resilient economic relationship.
Earlier this month, private economic sectors in South Korea and Japan have bolstered cooperation after a year and a half.
The Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) and the Japan Business Federation, or commonly referred to as Keidanren, have agreed to explore the establishment of a trilateral business summit in alignment with government cooperation among Korea, the United States and Japan. Additionally, they have agreed to organize a joint startup cooperation forum and Korea has decided to pursue membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
The FKI and Keidanren held the 30th South Korea-Japan Business Conference at the Keidanren headquarters in Tokyo on Jan. 11.
"A few years ago, during a business conference in Tokyo, there was no communication and the atmosphere was different. But this time, it has completely changed and it was very positive," said Ryu Jin, chairman of the FKI, after the meeting.