Cautious Steps Towards South Korea-Japan Military Logistics Pact

South Korea and Japan are in discussions over a potential military-logistics support pact, yet remain cautious due to historical tensions. The proposed agreement, which allows logistics sharing, requires public persuasion in both nations. Concerns persist over colonial history and the presence of Japanese forces in Korea.

South Korea and Japan have begun talks on a potential military-logistics support agreement, though Seoul remains cautious due to historical tensions. This was disclosed by Seoul's defense chief at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.

The proposed pact, known as the acquisition and cross-servicing agreement, would enable the U.S. allies to share and procure logistics such as fuel, food, and ammunition. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back emphasized the need for citizen persuasion in both countries before proceeding.

Caution stems from longstanding grievances over Japan's colonial rule from 1910 to 1945 and public resistance to the idea of Japanese troops on Korean soil. Attempts to reach Japan's Defense Ministry for comment were unsuccessful.