Japan-Korea Finance Ministerial Meeting (January 12, 2026)

Minister Katayama met with Korean Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun Cheol on Monday, January 12 on the sidelines of the Critical Minerals Finance Ministerial Meeting in Washington, D.C.

The ministers of the two countries exchanged views on the global economy including recent market developments. They acknowledged the resilience of the global economy and also noted that uncertainties persist, including changes in the global trade environment.

In addition, they reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination to advance the economies of both Japan and Korea, as well as within multilateral fora such as the G20. Minister Katayama also conveyed Japan’s expectations for Korea’s cooperation in the ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting, which Japan co‑chairs with the Philippines.

Lastly, the ministers agreed to continue preparations to hold the 10th Japan–Korea Finance Ministers’ Dialogue in Tokyo on Saturday, March 14, and affirmed their intention to maintain close communication between the two financial authorities in step with shuttle diplomacy between the leaders of both countries.