Koizumi to Visit Korea around July 22, Japanese Media Reports

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi will visit Korea around July 22 to discuss North Korea’s nuclear issue and the further consolidation of relationship between the two countries with President Roh Moo-hyun, reported the Daily Yomiuri, quoting Japanese government officials as saying yesterday.

“The major agenda of this summit meeting will be six-way talks and the Korean political situation,” said Daily Yomiuri and added, “The two leaders will also exchange views on the various memorial events celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.”

Koizumi is known to be considering staying two days in Korea to visit provincial cities.

However, the Daily Yomiuri reported it was possible that the plan to visit Korea would be rescheduled in accordance with the result of the Upper House elections.

Won-Jae Park parkwj@donga.com