Security Chief: "If Forced Mobilization Negotiations Are Settled, Comprehensive Korea-Japan Relations Will Rise"

Kim Sung-han "Must Meet Leaders to Untie Gordius Knot"
"Korea-Japan Economic Circles Discussing Ways to Contribute to Future Generations"
Regarding Negotiations "Final Stage... Official Announcement Expected"

Kim Sung-han, Director of the National Security Office, said on the 5th that the possibility of restoring shuttle diplomacy between the South Korean and Japanese leaders by the end of this month depends on "if the current issues are well resolved, various and concrete issues will likely emerge to promote comprehensive relations between the two sides and further develop the Korea-US-Japan relationship." The 'current issues' mentioned by Director Kim refer to the ongoing discussions between the two governments through economic organizations to find a solution to the forced labor (compensation) issue.

On the same day, speaking to reporters at Incheon International Airport on Yeongjongdo Island in the morning, Director Kim said, "It is important for high-level officials to meet, but it is also necessary for the two leaders to meet and, immediately after solving the so-called 'Gordian knot' (a complex problem difficult to resolve), to swiftly address the pending issues."

He added, "Such an opportunity will soon be decided in terms of timing and level through consultations between the two sides."

Earlier, when asked by reporters about the 'joint fund formation' proposed as a solution to the Korea-Japan forced labor compensation negotiations, Director Kim responded, "I am not sure what kind of fund is being referred to, but for Korea-Japan relations to enter a new era, the future generation seems to be the most important."

He continued, "We are currently discussing ways in which the youth and future generations of both Korea and Japan can contribute through various sectors, including the economic circles of both countries, to open a new era in bilateral relations and accumulate potential."

According to multiple government sources, the South Korean and Japanese governments have tentatively agreed to jointly establish and operate a 'Future Youth Fund' (tentative name) through the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) and Keidanren (Japan Business Federation), which represent the business communities of the two countries.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

This plan involves creating a fund through the two economic organizations under the pretext of developing a future-oriented Korea-Japan relationship. It was proposed as a solution in place of the Japanese defendant companies' direct participation in compensation payments during the forced labor compensation negotiations. The FKI and Keidanren are expected to announce the results of negotiations regarding the Future Youth Fund on the 6th.

Regarding the specific negotiation status, Director Kim said, "I understand that consultations between diplomatic authorities are entering the final stages," and added, "If an important measure is derived, I understand there will be an official announcement at an appropriate time."

When asked about reports that the Japanese defendant companies would not directly participate in funding, he said, "I don't think it is at a stage where I can confirm that," and added, "I understand that the specific details between the two sides are currently being coordinated, and once finalized, there will be an official announcement at an appropriate time."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.