New Japan PM Takaichi Expresses Fondness for South Korean Culture

TOKYO, Oct 22 (Bernama-Kyodo) -- Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday sought to allay concerns that relations with South Korea could be affected under her leadership, as she expressed her fondness for South Korean food and culture, Kyodo news reported

“I love South Korea’s seaweeds and I also use South Korean cosmetics. I watch South Korean dramas as well,” said Takaichi during a late-night press conference after she was elected prime minister earlier in the day.

She made the remarks when asked about the bilateral relationship amid concern in South Korea that her appointment as prime minister could strain ties.

Takaichi has regularly visited the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo, a source of diplomatic friction with South Korea and China due to its links with Japan’s wartime past.

At the press conference, Takaichi also described South Korea as an “important neighbouring country” and expressed her eagerness to meet with President Lee Jae Myung.

South Korea will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit later this month.

-- BERNAMA-KYODO