Lee Jae Myung Arrives in Takaichi’s Hometown for Summit Lee Jae Myung touched down in Nara, the hometown of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, on 13 January to launch a two‑day summit, captured in a handshake photo that marked the formal start of talks [1][2]. The visit is framed as “shuttle diplomacy,” a series of reciprocal leader‑level exchanges intended to sustain momentum in bilateral relations [1][2]. It follows Lee’s recent state visit to China, occurring amid heightened Tokyo‑Beijing tensions over Taiwan remarks [1].

Agenda Covers Economy, Society, Culture, and Regional Issues Both leaders plan to discuss deepening economic cooperation, regional security, and global challenges, with a particular emphasis on future industries such as artificial intelligence [2]. The briefing also highlights social and cultural dimensions, including a friendship event and a meeting with ethnic Koreans residing in Japan [2]. Cheong Wa Dae describes the talks as a future‑oriented partnership that broadens cooperation across multiple sectors [1][2].

Humanitarian Focus Includes Chosei Mine Remains DNA Analysis notable component of the summit involves humanitarian cooperation on historical issues, specifically DNA analysis of remains from the 1942 Chosei undersea coal‑mine flood in Yamaguchi Prefecture [2]. Working‑level discussions aim to identify victims of the wartime labor tragedy, reflecting sensitivity to historical reconciliation [2]. National Security Adviser Wi Sung‑lac highlighted this effort alongside broader humanitarian collaboration [2].

Shuttle Diplomacy Continues Pattern of High‑Level Exchanges The Nara talks represent Lee’s second visit to Japan this year, following an August meeting with former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba [2]. Officials stress that such reciprocal visits are designed to reinforce trust and maintain a steady diplomatic rhythm [1][2]. The ongoing shuttle diplomacy underscores both countries’ desire to solidify a stable, forward‑looking bilateral relationship [1][2].