Japan and South Korea ‘only have each other’ as US wavers, ex-minister warns

Former Japanese foreign and defence minister Taro Kono said Wednesday that Japan and South Korea must form a strong security alliance to keep East Asia stable, as US commitment to the region becomes less certain. “I think it is indispensable for peace and stability for East Asia that Japan and Korea create a very strong security alliance, not just the economy,” Kono said. “Japan and Korea need to sit down and discuss security in the region.” Kono spoke at an event titled “Asia-Pacific in the age of American...” The remarks highlight growing concern in Tokyo and Seoul that Washington may reduce its military focus on East Asia. Both nations have long relied on the US as a security partner. Without a strong US presence, Kono argued, the two neighbors—historically divided by disputes over territory and wartime history—have no other reliable ally. “Japan and South Korea only have each other,” he said.