South Korea's Foreign Minister Visits Japan and the U.S. to Strengthen Alliances

South Korea's Foreign Minister Park Jin (조현) is set to visit Japan and the United States, marking his first official trip since taking office. He stated that the purpose of this visit is not only to enhance South Korea-Japan relations but also to upgrade trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan based on practical diplomacy. Speaking to reporters at Gimpo International Airport on July 29, 2025, he noted that it is rare for a foreign minister to visit Japan first after taking office.

During the upcoming South Korea-Japan foreign ministers' meeting, Park plans to discuss the overall international situation, bilateral relations, and the Northeast Asian context. He emphasized the importance of finding cooperative measures to foster a future-oriented relationship between the two countries, including addressing historical issues.

When asked if he would seek advice from Japan regarding the recently concluded U.S.-Japan tariff negotiations, Park replied that while he would listen to Japan's perspective, the discussions might not align closely with South Korea's interests.

Park also mentioned that he would convey President Lee Jae-myung's strong commitment to restoring shuttle diplomacy between South Korea and Japan during his visit. On July 31, just a day before the mutual tariff deadline, he will meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. He noted that this meeting coincides with the final stages of negotiations and that he aims to provide as much support as possible regarding trade discussions.

In addition to tariff negotiations, Park plans to discuss the modernization of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and how to strengthen trilateral cooperation with Japan. He highlighted the importance of discussing the overall alliance and future strategies for collaboration.

Regarding recent comments from Kim Yo-jong (김여정), the Deputy Director of the Workers' Party of Korea, who suggested a willingness to engage in dialogue with the U.S. based on recognition of North Korea's nuclear status, Park expressed a cautious approach. He stated that further analysis is needed to formulate an appropriate response, considering the context of the current administration's efforts to create a positive cycle in inter-Korean relations.