Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) Professor Dr. Jeffrey Hornung published an opinion piece entitled “Japan’s Sensible New Defense Chief” in the Diplomat June 16 and an article entitled “Lost chance for Tokyo-Seoul security relations” in The Japan Times June 18.

The first article highlights the positive aspects of Satoshi Morimoto’s selection to head Japan’s Defense Ministry and the opposition to his selection.

The Tokyo-Seoul article punctuates a missed opportunity to pave the way for future cooperation between the two countries. Here’s an exerpt:

“Yet, proving the adage that one should never put the cart before the horse, the ROK suspended the signing of the agreements at the 11th hour, including the cancellation of a planned visit to Tokyo by Defense Minister Kim Kwan Jin. What could have been a practical, forward-looking effort to strengthen relations between two vibrant democracies facing shared security challenges has instead become another casualty of the complexities of politics and history. Another opportunity is lost to take one small (albeit crucial) step forward in bilateral security relations.”

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The views expressed in these articles are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of APCSS, the U.S. Pacific Command, the U.S. Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.