Seoul: The leader of the main opposition People Power Party met with Japanese Ambassador Koichi Mizushima on Monday and expressed hope for further advancement in bilateral relations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Rep. Jang Dong-hyeok shared his aspirations for continued positive development between South Korea and Japan, highlighting the friendly ties that have been upheld since the previous administration. During the meeting held at the National Assembly, Jang remarked on President Lee Jae Myung's recognition of Japan's importance since taking office, noting that many South Koreans see the ongoing stable diplomatic relations as a positive outcome.

Jang also mentioned public concerns that bilateral relations could deteriorate when Lee was leading the then-ruling Democratic Party during the former administration. He emphasized the significance of the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between the two countries, noting that numerous aspects of their relationship have been normalized over the past three years.

In response, Ambassador Mizushima expressed his appreciation for the continued efforts to strengthen relations, stating that the bilateral ties have been developing in a "future-oriented and stable manner" since the new administration's inception.