Japan’s new PM strikes friendly tone, calls S. Korea 'key neighbor'

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi speaks during a press conference at the PM's office in Tokyo, Tuesday. EPA-Yonha

Newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Tuesday she hopes to meet with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung soon, calling Korea an important neighbor and a key partner in tackling shared global challenges.

She stressed that the significance of the Japan–Korea relationship is “now greater than ever.”

At her first press conference since taking office, held at the prime minister’s official residence in Tokyo on Tuesday evening, Takaichi acknowledged that her appointment has drawn both hope and concern in South Korea.

Seeking to strike a friendly tone, she said, “I really like Korean 'gim' (dried and seasoned seaweed), I use Korean cosmetics, and I watch Korean dramas,” adding that she hopes to strengthen mutual understanding through dialogue.

“I want to move our ties forward in a stable, future-oriented way, building on the foundation laid by past administrations,” she said, emphasizing that close communication and steady cooperation will be priorities for her government.

Takaichi also stressed the importance of three-way coordination among Japan, South Korea and the United States, particularly on security and economic issues related to North Korea.

“Strategic cooperation among the three nations is essential,” she said.

Looking ahead to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders' Meeting opening in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, on Oct. 31, Takaichi said she views the gathering as a valuable opportunity to meet world leaders and promote the importance of a free and fair economic order. “I want Japan to build trust and play a visible, confident role on the global stage,” she said.

Known for her conservative views and past visits to the Yasukuni Shrine honoring war criminals, which have at times strained ties with Seoul, Takaichi appeared intent on setting a softer tone Tuesday, underscoring her willingness to engage and maintain cooperation with Korea.