President Lee Jae Myung (right) and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Jan. 14, 2026, shake hands during a visit to Horyuji Temple in Japan's Nara Prefecture. (Cheong Wa Dae)
By Jeong Euiseok
President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on May 19 will hold bilateral talks in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, four months after their last summit.
Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung in a written briefing on May 17 said both leaders will hold a summit on the evening of May 19.
This marks the sixth Seoul-Tokyo summit since the launch of the Lee administration and the second shuttle diplomacy meeting between this year. The previous talks were held in Japan's Nara Prefecture, the prime minister hometown.
The Japanese leader is reciprocating President Lee's visit to her hometown. This meeting is expected to offer an opportunity for both sides to build stronger trust in each other.
On the afternoon of May 19, Prime Minister Takaichi will arrive at Daegu International Airport and receive an official welcome from the second vice minister of foreign affairs, the ambassador to Japan and other figures. She will then head for a hotel for small-group and expanded meetings.
Cheong Wa Dae said Prime Minister Takaichi will get treatment accorded to a state guest, including the placement of 12 flag bearers on both sides of the hotel entrance.
The summit will focus on bilateral harmony through the use of food and performing arts.
Following a joint news conference, a dinner will feature fusion Hansik (traditional cuisine), Andong soju (traditional clear liquor) and Nara sake (Japanese alcoholic drink). Traditional desserts from Korea (jeonyak) and Japan (mochi) will also be served.
After the meal, both leaders will see a performance by Korean Japanese pianist Yang Bang Ean and another by a trio featuring the piano, violin and cello.
Then they will head to a ferry dock in Hahoe Village to watch a pansori (traditional lyrical opera) production specifically prepared for the Japanese leader.
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