Core Viewpoint - The recent meeting between South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and former Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso signifies a shift in South Korea's perception of Japan, moving from a historical adversarial stance to a more equal diplomatic relationship [1][2][4] Group 1: Historical Context and Diplomatic Relations - The historical context of Korea's colonial past has shaped its complex relationship with Japan, where Japan is seen not just as a neighbor but as a significant historical figure [1] - The concept of "shuttle diplomacy" between Korea and Japan has been marked by interruptions and restarts, reflecting the underlying psychological contradictions in their diplomatic relations [2] - South Korea's desire for equal treatment in bilateral relations contrasts with Japan's historical view of Korea, leading to a prolonged period of diplomatic tension [2] Group 2: Changes in Perception and Policy - South Korea's changing attitude towards Japan has been evident since the Roh Moo-hyun administration, where a more assertive stance on historical and sovereignty issues began to emerge [3] - The perception of South Korea's economic and cultural advancements has led to a fundamental shift in how Koreans view Japan, moving from a position of admiration to one of parity [3] - Recent statements from South Korean politicians and media reflect a growing consensus that Korea and Japan are now peers, indicating a significant psychological shift in their relationship [4] Group 3: Implications for Future Relations - The recent visit by President Lee Jae-myung is seen as a step towards "restructuring" the bilateral relationship rather than merely improving it, highlighting a new era of diplomacy based on mutual respect [4] - Japan's response to South Korea's rising international status suggests a reevaluation of its own stance towards Korea, indicating a reciprocal adjustment in their diplomatic dynamics [4]

韩国总统李在明9月30日与到访的日本首相石破茂在韩国釜山举行会谈，双方就加强韩日务实合作方案 及在地区和全球事务中开展合作的必要性交换了意见。 韩国总统府发言人姜由桢在新闻发布会上说，两国领导人对于双方完成韩日间的"穿梭外交"表示欢迎， 对韩日关系的重要性均表示完全认同，一致同意在重启"穿梭外交"的基础上继续推进韩日之间的沟通合 作。 本月7日，石破茂宣布辞去自民党总裁职务，同时也意味着他将卸任首相。自民党定于10月4日举行总裁 选举，随后日本将举行首相指名选举，选出新任首相。 （文章来源：新华社） 两国领导人对韩日启动共同社会问题协商机制表示欢迎，并就时隔16年重启韩日科学技术合作委员会会 议达成一致。同时，双方还对9月召开的韩日国防部长会谈、经济安保对话、财务次官会议等进行了评 价，并就进一步加强两国间沟通的必要性达成共识。 李在明在会谈中提到"正视过去、同时继续面向未来的合作"原则，表示如果两国间不断积累有意义的合 作成果，会在有关两国悬而未决议题的对话中产生积极作用。 李在明8月23日至24日访问日本，与石破茂举行会谈。日本共同社报道说，李在明此访开启了日韩领导 人互访的"穿梭外交"。 ...