South Korea-Japan relations under two presidents
South Korea and Japan have had a strained relationship since Japan's colonial rule from 1910 to 1945. They normalized relations in 1965 but unresolved historical issues persisted. While both countries have deep military ties to the U.S. and view North Korea as an increasing threat, historical grievances have restricted closer cooperation. However, in the past two years, there has been a shift in the relationship. In times of regional developments worrisome to both countries, the will to work together seem to outweigh past resentments. This brief analyses the developments and impact of South Korea-Japan relations on regional security.