Key Facts
• October 21, 2025: Sanae Takaichi held her first press conference as Japan’s Prime Minister.
• A South Korean journalist raised concerns about potential deterioration in Japan-South Korea relations.
• Takaichi emphasized the importance of stable, future-oriented Japan-South Korea relations.
• She expressed her fondness for Korean products, including seaweed, cosmetics, and dramas.
• Takaichi became Japan’s first female Prime Minister.
• Only two women were appointed to her cabinet: Satsuki Katayama (Finance Minister) and Kimi Onoda (Economic Security Minister).
• Takaichi stressed her commitment to equal opportunities and collective efforts across generations.
• She ruled out immediate plans for dissolving the House of Representatives, prioritizing economic measures instead.
Summary
On October 21, 2025, Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first female Prime Minister, held her inaugural press conference. Addressing concerns from a South Korean journalist about potential strain in Japan-South Korea relations, Takaichi underscored the importance of fostering stable, future-oriented ties based on existing foundations. She also showcased her appreciation for Korean culture, mentioning her use of Korean cosmetics and love for Korean seaweed and dramas. Despite expectations for a more gender-diverse cabinet, only two women were appointed to ministerial roles. Takaichi emphasized her focus on equal opportunities and collective efforts. She dismissed speculation about an early dissolution of the House of Representatives, prioritizing economic policies instead.
