Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

On the afternoon of August 7, 2025, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back held a video conference call with Japan’s Minister of Defense, Gen Nakatani, following his appointment, to exchange greetings and discuss bilateral defense exchanges, cooperation, and regional security issues.

Minister Ahn emphasized that closer cooperation is essential amid the geopolitical uncertainty and complex security challenges facing both countries. He also stated, “On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Korea and Japan, I look forward to the continued bilateral and trilateral security cooperation between Korea-Japan and Korea-US-Japan.”

Defense Minister Gen Nakatani extended his congratulations on Minister Ahn’s inauguration and reaffirmed that South Korea is Japan’s partner and an important neighboring country for cooperation on various international issues. He agreed to continue security cooperation between Korea and Japan, as well as trilateral cooperation involving Korea, the United States, and Japan.

Starting with this video call, both sides pledged to meet again at the earliest possible opportunity to engage in more in-depth discussions on defense exchange and cooperation.