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S.Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung has good feelings toward Japanese NHK

A: Hey! What's up?

B: Just chilling, what's new with you?

A: Well, did you hear about Lee Jae-myung, the South Korean presidential candidate?

B: No, I haven't. What happened?

A: Heh, he wants to strengthen ties with Japan! He said he has good feelings for their people and thinks we can learn from them.

B: Oh really? But what about the dispute over those islands?

A: Yeah, he mentioned that too. He'll take a firm stance on historical issues but also promote cultural exchanges and cooperation. It's his way of showing he's ready for smooth diplomacy.

B: That sounds interesting! I wonder how the Japanese folks will react to that.

A: Yeah, it'll be interesting to see. He's currently leading in polls, so it might make a difference if elected.
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South Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung has stressed the importance of promoting private-sector exchanges and economic cooperation with Japan, saying he has "very good feelings" toward its people.



Lee is running for the largest opposition Democratic Party in the presidential election on June 3. He remains the frontrunner in public opinion polls.



He referred to South Korea's relations with Japan in a video message he posted on social media on Tuesday.



Lee noted there is a perception that he is hostile toward Japan. He said he has no choice but to take a firm stance on historical issues and the issue of Dokdo, but also said he is pro-active and open on cultural exchanges and areas where the two countries can cooperate.



Dokdo is the South Korean name for the Takeshima Islands in the Sea of Japan. South Korea controls the islands. Japan claims them. The Japanese government maintains the islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory. It says South Korea is illegally occupying them.



Lee added that he has traveled to Japan several times, and found its people truly humble, generous, hardworking and frugal. He said South Koreans can learn a lot from them.



Lee's comments appear to be aimed at showing his readiness to promote smooth diplomacy.
Summary
South Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung emphasizes strengthening ties with Japan, expressing positive feelings towards their people. Despite taking a firm stance on historical issues and the disputed Dokdo/Takeshima Islands, he supports cultural exchanges and cooperation. Running for the
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ID: b3b70035-4bfe-47dd-80ab-1d4e75216404

Category ID: nhk

URL: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20250521_18/

Date: May 21, 2025

Created: 2025/05/22 07:10

Updated: 2025/12/08 03:59

Last Read: 2025/05/22 07:25