Seoul, Tokyo watch US foreign policy twists with rising fear

"South Korean President Lee Jae Myung received a very warm welcome from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during his visit to Japan this week, with the two leaders pictured exchanging gifts in Nara, Takaichi's hometown, and even playing the drums together. The two-day summit ended with Lee and Takaichi pledging to make headway on various bilateral issues. Takaichi (l), a heavy metal enthusiast, reportedly played K-pop songs with Korea's LeeImage: Prime Minister's Office of Japan/dpa/picture alliance"

"Their parties have had sharp words for each other in the past. But analysts say Tokyo and Seoul feel the need to present a united front not only to face China's growing power in northeast Asia and the unpredictable regime in North Korea, but also because of their shared concerns about their nominally closest ally, the United States."

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung visited Japan and received a warm welcome from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, including gift exchanges and a joint drum session. The two-day summit concluded with pledges to advance bilateral issues and cultural camaraderie, despite the leaders' opposing political orientations. Tokyo and Seoul seek a united front to address China's rising influence in northeast Asia and the unpredictable North Korean regime. Shared unease about a potentially less Asia-focused United States, amplified by Washington's recent action in Venezuela and references to a revived Monroe Doctrine, is reinforcing trilateral strategic concerns.

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