The US and South Korea have postponed security talks and military exercises

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Wednesday that, although he could not comment on the internal affairs of other countries, he was watching the situation in Korea with “deep and serious” concern.

Ishiba, who became prime minister in September, has previously signaled his desire to continue Japan’s efforts to improve relations with South Korea, which have deteriorated sharply over the past year.

As part of this, Ishiba reportedly began planning a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul in January. Ishiba said that there were no “fixed plans” for such a trip.

Ishiba said Japan is doing everything possible to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens in South Korea.