Title: A New Chapter for Japan-South Korea Relations? Reflections on the Latest Summit

On March 15, 2023, the leaders of Japan and South Korea met in Tokyo for their first summit in two years, signaling a possible thaw in their tense and troubled relationship. The meeting, which lasted for four hours, covered a range of topics, including trade, security, historical issues, and regional cooperation. While the outcome of the summit remains to be seen, it is worth examining some of the key points and implications of the discussion.

Trade and Economic Issues: One of the main items on the agenda was the ongoing trade dispute between the two countries, which began in 2019 when Japan imposed export controls on key materials used by South Korean semiconductor and display makers. The move was seen by South Korea as retaliation for a court ruling that ordered Japanese companies to compensate Korean victims of forced labor during World War II. Since then, the two countries have engaged in a tit-for-tat trade war that has hurt their economies and strained their ties.

In the summit, the two leaders reportedly agreed to work towards a resolution of the dispute, possibly by resuming talks at the World Trade Organization or through bilateral negotiations. While this is a positive development, it remains to be seen whether the two sides can overcome the deep-seated mistrust and historical grievances that underpin the conflict. Moreover, some experts caution that the economic rivalry between Japan and South Korea is rooted in structural factors, such as their dependence on exports and the rise of China, that may not be easily addressed by diplomatic efforts alone.

Security and Regional Cooperation: Another topic of discussion was the security situation in East Asia, particularly in light of North Korea's nuclear and missile programs and China's growing assertiveness in the region. The leaders of Japan and South Korea reportedly reaffirmed their commitment to the trilateral security partnership with the United States and to strengthening cooperation among themselves. They also discussed the possibility of joint military exercises and information-sharing on North Korea's activities.

In addition, the two sides agreed to explore opportunities for regional economic cooperation, such as through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). These initiatives aim to promote trade and investment among countries in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. By deepening their economic ties, Japan and South Korea could potentially mitigate some of their political and security differences and enhance their shared interests.

Historical Issues and Reconciliation: Perhaps the most sensitive and contentious topic in the Japan-South Korea relationship is the legacy of Japan's colonization of Korea and its wartime atrocities, such as the use of "comfort women" as sex slaves and the forced labor of Koreans. These issues have long been a source of anger and resentment among many Koreans, who feel that Japan has not sufficiently apologized or compensated for its past wrongdoings.

In the summit, the Japanese Prime Minister reportedly expressed remorse for Japan's colonial rule and wartime actions, but stopped short of offering a formal apology or compensation. This gesture may be seen by some Koreans as insufficient, but it could be a step towards reconciliation and dialogue. The two leaders also agreed to establish a joint commission to investigate and clarify the historical issues, a move that could help bridge the gap in their respective narratives and foster mutual understanding.

Conclusion: The Japan-South Korea summit was a significant event that could have far-reaching implications for the two countries and the region as a whole. While the talks were largely positive and constructive, there are still many challenges and obstacles that need to be overcome. The legacy of history, the structural economic rivalry, and the shifting geopolitical landscape all pose formidable challenges to Japan and South Korea's relationship.