President Lee Jae Myung says he finds Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to be “a remarkable politician” who shares his beliefs, adding that his earlier concerns about her have vanished.

Speaking at a press conference after the APEC summit in Gyeongju, Lee said the meeting left a good impression and that he proposed visiting Takaichi’s home prefecture of Nara for the next round of shuttle diplomacy.

Lee said both leaders agreed that South Korea and Japan must face existing issues “squarely” while working together toward a shared future.

He also said leadership demands pragmatism, saying Takaichi’s approach as Japan’s head of government differs from her past positions.

Lee stressed that politics should serve “the people’s lives and the nation’s future,” expressing optimism about stronger South Korea-Japan cooperation.