Defense ministers meeting in line with this month’s Asian Security Conference
2018 Japan claims “Korean Navy investigated aircraft radar”
Korea states “No radar investigation, Japanese aircraft conducted low-altitude threat flight”
Stalemate between the two sides, defense exchanges effectively suspended
Discussions on measures to prevent recurrence between Korea and Japan, pushing for exchange of documents,
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, ‘[Seoul Economy]’,
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, ‘Korea and Japan are reportedly working towards resuming defense exchanges that were effectively suspended due to the 2018 radar conflict involving aircraft between the two countries. In preparation for the Asian Security Conference scheduled to take place in Singapore from May 31 to June 2, defense ministers will hold a meeting to discuss measures to prevent recurrence, and promote mutual visits between government and military high-ranking officials.’,
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, ‘The Korea-Japan aircraft conflict arose on December 20, 2018, when a South Korean Navy destroyer, Gwanggaeto the Great, allegedly directed its fire-control radar at a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force P1 aircraft flying near the vessel while conducting a rescue operation for a North Korean distressed fishing boat in the East Sea. Japan claimed to have evidence of this incident and publicly released a video supposedly taken from inside the aircraft as proof. However, Korea refuted the radar investigation claim and instead accused the Japanese aircraft of conducting a low-altitude, threatening flight near the Gwanggaeto the Great.’,
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, ‘In line with the defense ministers meeting, both countries are considering exchanging documents between the Korean Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force for the prevention of recurrence. They plan to agree on issues such as securing freedom and safety of flight and navigation in public waters based on the international standard for maritime collision avoidance guidelines (CUES), as well as communication protocols during on-site approaches.’,
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, ‘Yomiuri reported, “Since the Yoon Suk-yeol administration in Korea announced a solution to the forced labor lawsuit issue in March last year, progressive improvement in political and economic relations between Korea and Japan has been progressing.” They explained that efforts are being made to resolve the radar investigation issue, promote normalization of security relations, and seek common interests such as regional stability in the face of a severe security environment in East Asia that would benefit North Korea. Following the resumption of defense exchanges, Korea and Japan plan to expedite the reconstruction of trust relationships between their military units, including joint training, according to Yomiuri.’,
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, ‘Last year, during the Asian Security Conference, defense leaders of both countries emphasized the importance of preparing measures to prevent recurrence concerning the aircraft conflict while maintaining their respective positions, and directing their focus on future-oriented cooperation.’,
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