President Lee emphasizes efforts to develop Korea-Japan relations following the death of former Chairman Kono

President Lee Jaemyung expressed his condolences over the news of the passing of former Speaker of the Japanese House of Representatives Yohei Kono, and said he would continue a futureoriented KoreaJapan relationship. On the 11th, President Lee posted on X (X), describing former Speaker Kono as a respected senior figure in Japanese politics and someone who worked hard to build reconciliation and trust with neighboring countries. In particular, he referred to the Kono Statement, issued in 1993, and said it was an official document that acknowledged historical facts about the comfort women issue and expressed apology and remorse. He also said the Kono Statement showed a willingness to face history squarely and not repeat the same mistakes, and 평가ated that an attitude of empathizing with the pain of victims became an important foundation for the development of relations between Korea and Japan. President Lee added that he would continue working to develop KoreaJapan relations based on mutual respect and trust, while remembering the achievements and spirit of the deceased.