Key Facts
• On August 23, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba met South Korean President Lee Jae-myung in Tokyo.
• The summit lasted approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes at the Prime Minister’s Office.
• Both leaders agreed to develop bilateral relations based on the 1965 normalization framework.
• A joint statement was issued for the first time in 17 years.
• Agreements included early resumption of the “Japan-South Korea Vice-Ministerial Strategic Dialogue.”
• Both nations will address shared challenges like population decline and regional revitalization.
• Expansion of the working holiday program from 1 year (1 time) to 2 years (2 times).
• Cooperation in hydrogen and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors was confirmed.
• Commitment to North Korea’s complete denuclearization through trilateral cooperation with the U.S.
• 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of Japan-South Korea diplomatic normalization.
• The summit initiated “shuttle diplomacy” between the two nations.
• Ishiba reiterated Japan’s historical stance, including the 1998 joint declaration.
• Discussions included easing South Korea’s import restrictions on Japanese seafood.
• President Lee will meet U.S. President Donald Trump on August 24.
Summary
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung held a historic summit on August 23, 2025, marking a significant step in bilateral relations. The leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as defense, technology, and regional challenges, while also addressing historical and trade issues. Key agreements included expanding the working holiday program, promoting hydrogen and AI collaboration, and reaffirming commitment to North Korea’s denuclearization. This meeting, the first bilateral visit by a South Korean president to Japan since normalization, also launched “shuttle diplomacy” to enhance ties. The summit underscored the importance of stable Japan-South Korea relations for regional and global stability.
