Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will visit South Korea from May 19 to 20 at the invitation of President Lee Jae Myung, marking a reciprocal trip after Lee’s visit to Japan earlier this year. Takaichi is scheduled to travel to Andong, Lee’s hometown, as both leaders seek to reinforce bilateral ties.

The visit comes as the two democratic allies of the United States aim to deepen cooperation while confronting shared challenges from nuclear-armed North Korea and an increasingly assertive China. Discussions are expected to cover the future direction of relations, economic security, regional and global issues, and matters affecting everyday life such as the economy and public safety.

Relations between South Korea and Japan have long been strained due to historical disputes stemming from Japan’s occupation of the Korean Peninsula between 1910 and 1945. Despite concerns about potential tensions under Takaichi’s conservative leadership, both sides have recently signaled a commitment to strengthening cooperation and managing differences through dialogue.