In an unconventional display of diplomatic camaraderie, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung engaged in an impromptu drumming session featuring K-pop hits following their bilateral summit in Nara. The two leaders, adorned in personalized blue athletic tops, created a viral moment that symbolized their commitment to strengthening ties between the historically divided nations.
The musical interlude came after substantive discussions where both leaders affirmed enhanced cooperation on economic security and regional stability matters. Prime Minister Takaichi, drawing from her background as a former heavy metal band drummer, orchestrated the surprise performance specifically for President Lee, who had previously expressed his aspiration to play drums during last year’s APEC gathering.
Their repertoire included BTS’s global phenomenon “Dynamite” and “Golden” from the Golden Globe-winning animated feature “KPop Demon Hunters.” Video footage captured Takaichi demonstrating vigorous drumming technique with visible enthusiasm, while Lee acknowledged initial awkwardness that gradually transformed into rhythmic synchronization.
Beyond the cultural exchange, the leaders addressed pressing geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding China’s regional influence and the ongoing diplomatic tensions following Takaichi’s November remarks about potential military intervention in Taiwan. Both emphasized the critical importance of Japan-South Korea collaboration amidst complex international dynamics.
The meeting occurred against the historical backdrop of Japan’s 1910-1945 occupation of the Korean peninsula, which has long strained bilateral relations. While Lee’s predecessor had pursued improved ties, the current administration appears to be building upon this foundation through both symbolic gestures and substantive policy alignment, with Lee characterizing the relationship as “neighbors sharing a front yard.”