South Korea links security cooperation with Japan to public sentiment

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met with Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kishi in Seoul, stressing the importance of cooperation between the two "close neighbors" amid a changing international landscape. However, Cho also highlighted that security cooperation, particularly regarding a potential mutual logistics support agreement, is a matter deeply connected to South Korean public sentiment.

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The necessity for cooperation between South Korea and Japan as close neighbors is growing even greater amid the rapidly changing international situation.

Cho acknowledged the active defense exchanges and shuttle diplomacy between the two countries, noting their necessity in the face of global instability. Kishi echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the role of both nations as partners in addressing international challenges.

The foreign minister's remarks on public sentiment directly address domestic concerns, particularly the historical issues between Japan and South Korea. President Yoon Suk Yeol has previously stated that while a mutual logistics support agreement might be practically necessary, it is currently difficult for the South Korean public to accept.

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Security cooperation between our countries is a matter related to our people's sentiment.

This cautious approach contrasts with Japan's push for closer defense ties. While the mutual logistics support agreement was not officially on the agenda for the defense ministers' meeting, it has been a recurring topic in high-level discussions. The meeting also saw the defense ministers of both countries agreeing to enhance cooperation in areas such as aerial acrobatics team exchanges, search and rescue training, and artificial intelligence.

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It is necessary to expand practical cooperation that the public can feel.