Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, announced plans to hold a North Korea Summit to address abductions. The North Korea Summit aims to resolve the long-standing issue of Japanese citizens taken decades ago.
Takaichi stated at a Monday rally that Japan already expressed its desire to meet Kim Jong Un directly. She emphasized that the summit seeks concrete outcomes on the abduction issue. Japan reports at least 17 citizens were abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. Only five returned to Japan in 2002.
The abductions remain a sensitive point between the two countries. Pyongyang disputes the total number of abductees. North Korea claims some victims died from accidents or suicide. It also considers the matter closed. Families of missing Japanese citizens continue to press for answers.
Takaichi has met with abductee families twice since taking office, including with U.S. President Donald Trump. She reaffirmed her commitment to continue former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s mission. Analysts note the North Korea Summit would be the first meeting between a Japanese leader and North Korea in over 20 years.
Historical context shows past challenges. In 2002, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi met Kim Jong Il, returning five abductees. Another meeting in 2004 allowed additional family members to return. Since then, no further repatriations occurred. Previous leaders, including Abe and Kishida, expressed willingness, but no summit happened.
Takaichi now inherits this decades-old issue and seeks to make progress quickly. Experts suggest the North Korea Summit could reopen diplomatic channels. It could also set a framework for resolving remaining abduction cases.
Japan plans to consult international partners and prepare security arrangements. The North Korea Summit, if held, would mark a pivotal moment in Japan’s foreign policy. It may also reshape East Asian regional relations.
