On September 9, 2026, South Korean media Maeil Business Newspaper reported, 'Former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who is known as a leading pro-South Korea figure within the Liberal Democratic Party and is knowledgeable about security strategies, strongly called for strengthening cooperation between the two countries in security and economic aspects.'

The 27th World Knowledge Forum was held in Seoul from the 8th to the 10th, and Mr. Ishiba attended the 'Future of Japan-South Korea Cooperation' session on the 9th.

At the session, Mr. Ishiba pointed out that the traditional 'hub-and-spoke' defense strategy, with the United States as the central axis (hub) and South Korea and Japan playing roles like spokes of a wheel, is shifting to a network-type strategy where countries in the region are directly connected. He also expressed the view that a Japan-South Korea-centric multilateral security network, which could be called an 'Asian NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)' that connects alliance relationships such as Japan-U.S., U.S.-South Korea alliances, as well as Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines, should be built.

He also stated that 'If Japan and South Korea combine, their population would be 9th in the world, and their GDP and defense capabilities would be 3rd in the world,' and emphasized that 'The two countries, sharing the values of freedom and democracy, joining hands will lead not only to peace for both countries but also to world peace.'

As a concrete measure for security cooperation, he proposed the conclusion of an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA), which would allow for the mutual provision of ammunition, fuel, food, and other supplies during emergencies and joint training.

On the other hand, Mr. Ishiba said, 'Japan once annexed the Korean Peninsula, hurting the pride of the Korean people and bringing them sorrow. Japan must have the courage to face history squarely,' and also pointed out, 'As a prerequisite for advancing the agreement, it is necessary for Japan to demonstrate a sincere understanding of history.' The article introduced this as 'an unusual stance for a Japanese politician.'

Regarding the nuclear-powered submarines that the South Korean Navy is in the process of introducing, he positively evaluated them, saying, 'South Korea has sufficient technological capabilities. This will not only aid South Korea's self-defense but also lead to a reduction in the military burden on the United States.' He also indicated that they should not be seen as targeting specific countries like China, but rather from the perspective of burden-sharing in regional security.

In the economic sphere, he showed strong empathy for the bilateral economic community concept proposed by Chey Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group and President of the Chamber of Commerce, and stated that 'The formation of a huge economic bloc by the two countries will become an important axis for Asia's prosperity.'

In response to this article, South Korean netizens posted numerous comments to the effect that 'Japan will absolutely betray us,' such as 'Japan is a country that has always aimed to seize Korean territory. We should never cooperate on national defense or security,' 'At least not in terms of security. South Korea has never benefited from allying with Japan in history,' 'Japan is a country that shouldn't be trusted. It still glorifies war crimes and hasn't made a proper apology,' and 'It's an ideal story, but if you believe it, there's a 99% chance of being betrayed.'

On the other hand, some voices were also seen, such as 'If South Korea and Japan become one, it will be a deterrent to China and North Korea,' 'Mr. Ishiba was pro-South Korea even during his tenure, he really is,' and 'If the whole world becomes one, GDP will no longer be necessary.' (Translation/Editing: Asae)

韓聖淑（ハン・ソンスク）　韓国国務総理との面談。フランス訪問されている李在明（イ・ジェミョン)大統領からの伝言を頂き、人口減少、地方創生など日韓共通の課題について話し合いました。 pic.twitter.com/gNlsbkFrJO

— 石破茂 (@shigeruishiba) September 8, 2026