SEOUL – In a pivotal diplomatic effort, the foreign ministers of South Korea, Japan, and China convened the 11th Korea-Japan-China Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo on March 22, 2025, to discuss crucial regional issues amid escalating military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.
The meeting marked a significant moment in diplomatic relations, occurring a year and four months after their last gathering in Busan, South Korea, in November 2023. It was particularly noteworthy as it came just a day after Sergei Shoigu, Russia's top security official, visited Pyongyang, reinforcing the growing ties between North Korea and Russia.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul reiterated the collective stance of the three nations, affirming that "maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula serves the common interests of the three countries." This declaration underlined the pressing need for a united front against the backdrop of North Korea's recent military advancements and its deepening alliance with Russia.
The meeting brought to light the concerns that North Korea’s collaboration with Russia might lead to enhanced military capabilities that pose a threat to regional stability. The ministers expressed the urgent necessity for Russia and North Korea to halt their military cooperation. Cho emphasized that North Korea should not be rewarded for its involvement in military actions, such as deploying troops to Ukraine to assist Russia.
Amid these discussions, little could be overlooked regarding the historical complexities that complicate trilateral relationships. For instance, Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya's emphasis on the peace that can be achieved through cooperation acknowledged the lingering historical grievances between the countries. "Unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force should not be tolerated anywhere in the world," Iwaya stressed, addressing the need for unity among the three nations against global and regional challenges.
Additionally, North Korea's missile developments and nuclear programs remain essential focal points for the three countries. Iwaya later affirmed the shared goal of denuclearization of North Korea in alignment with UN Security Council resolutions as a priority for all three nations.
Communications during the meeting also addressed how their trilateral cooperation could effectively respond to challenges stemming from China's growing influence and American protectionist policies. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlighted the importance of political solutions to the challenges faced in the Korean Peninsula while sidestepping direct mentions of North Korea, advising a more nuanced approach towards tuning relations.
In light of the increasing military tensions and economic uncertainties due to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s return to office, the need for united cooperation becomes ever more critical. As rising tensions characterized the US-China relationships, strengthened cooperation among South Korea, Japan, and China could provide a more stable response to fluctuating global dynamics.
Experts like Ukeru Magosaki of the East Asian Community Institute noted, "Looking at the world today, we are in a period of great upheaval. If China, South Korea, and Japan can navigate through this instability, they have the potential to become a crucial global economic center." This optimism is echoed in discussions regarding culture, trade, and mutual development.
It was also agreed to renew negotiations on a China-Japan-South Korea Free Trade Agreement, aiming for further economic integration. This, alongside the anticipated leaders' summit later in 2025, suggests a commitment to fostering long-term regional cooperation despite historical disputes.
However, this gathering also faced the reality of persistent distrust and separate national grievances. Efforts to reinforce mutual understanding, including improving cultural exchanges like K-pop and K-drama through potential lifting of bans set by China, indicate a willingness to mend ties. Such cultural engagement is seen as vital in building inter-country rapport and softening historical tensions.
Certainly, South Korea’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Gyeongju in October 2025, alongside the trilateral cooperation discussions, indicates a proactive approach to navigate the geopolitical landscape and evolve collaborative efforts in addressing regional security.
While challenges remain, with unresolved issues relating to wartime compensation and comfort women between Japan and South Korea, the ministers acknowledged the necessity of overcoming past grievances for a collaborative future. The discussions reflect a strong inclination towards a unified approach for peace, recognizing the necessity amid threats from North Korea.
As the trilateral meeting concluded, a shared vision became evident: cooperation among these three nations is not just foundational for their security but essential for establishing a stable and peaceful Northeast Asia. It remains to be seen if this cooperation can successfully transcend historical grievances and foster a durable alliance that can tackle both current and future challenges.
