Defense Minister Nakatani visited the ROK from September 8 to 9, 2025. Major events are as follows.
1. Japan-ROK Defense Ministerial Meeting
Defense Minister Nakatani held a ministerial meeting with Mr. Ahn Gyu-Back, Minister of National Defense of the ROK, while visiting the ROK.
The Ministers welcomed the realization of the visit by the Japanese Defense Minister in the year of the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the ROK, which was achieved the first time in 10 years since 2015, following the visit by the Minister of National Defense of the ROK to Japan in July 2024, which was the first time in 15 years.
Furthermore, the Ministers concurred on the necessity of promoting both Japan-ROK and Japan-ROK-U.S. defense cooperation, and developing Japan-ROK futuristic relation.
2. Flower Offering at Seoul National Cemetery
Defense Minister Nakatani offered flowers at Seoul National Cemetery, which is reserved for Koreans including veterans who fought in the Korean War.
3. Talk with Commander of US Forces Korea
Defense Minister Nakatani had talks with GEN Brunson, Commander of U.S. Forces Korea. They shared recognition it is important to further strengthen Japan-U.S.-ROK defense cooperation for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
4. The Seoul Defense Dialogue 2025 Special Address
Defense Minister Nakatani participated in the Seoul Defense Dialogue 2025, and gave a Special Address. He noted the changing international situation and underscored the need for cooperation, especially Japan-ROK and Japan-U.S.-ROK cooperation, under the spirit of OCEAN.
5. Japan-Philippines Defense Ministerial Meeting
Defense Minister Nakatani held a meeting with Philippine Secretary of National Defense, Gilberto Teodoro. The two Ministers affirmed their commitment to continue close communication between the defense authorities and to further strengthen defense cooperation and exchanges between Japan and the Philippines.
References
- Japan-Philippines Defense Ministerial Meeting
6. Visit to Pyeongtaek Naval Base
Defense Minister Nakatani visited to Pyeongtaek Naval Base, which controls the Yellow Sea area. During the visit, Defense Minister Nakatani discussed with the Commander, was briefed about the base, and saw a ROK Navy vessel etc.
