Experts say that the relationship between Japan and South Korea needs to be placed on a more pragmatic footing as both countries face common challenges from US President Donald Trump’s unilateral policies as well as China’s growing military and economic strength.
According to analysts, maintaining rigid approaches in bilateral ties could put Tokyo and Seoul at a disadvantage amid rapidly changing regional geopolitical dynamics. Instead, the two nations should seek concrete areas of cooperation, regardless of lingering historical and territorial disagreements.
The experts also noted that Trump’s “America First” policy could exert significant pressure on both Japan and South Korea, forcing the two Asian allies to adjust their strategies to protect national interests. At the same time, China’s increasing power in both military and economic spheres is pushing Tokyo and Seoul to forge closer ties.
This context underscores the urgent need for the two countries to overcome past barriers and work toward a more substantive and effective partnership to meet shared challenges ahead.
