S.Korean presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung has good feelings toward Japanese
Lee is running for the largest opposition Democratic Party in the presidential election on June 3. He remains the frontrunner in public opinion polls.
He referred to South Korea's relations with Japan in a video message he posted on social media on Tuesday.
Lee noted there is a perception that he is hostile toward Japan. He said he has no choice but to take a firm stance on historical issues and the issue of Dokdo, but also said he is pro-active and open on cultural exchanges and areas where the two countries can cooperate.
Dokdo is the South Korean name for the Takeshima Islands in the Sea of Japan. South Korea controls the islands. Japan claims them. The Japanese government maintains the islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory. It says South Korea is illegally occupying them.
Lee added that he has traveled to Japan several times, and found its people truly humble, generous, hardworking and frugal. He said South Koreans can learn a lot from them.
Lee's comments appear to be aimed at showing his readiness to promote smooth diplomacy.
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