S. Korea ruling party head wants to boost ties with Japan

The new leader of South Korea's ruling Democratic Party has expressed his willingness to further strengthen ties with Japan. Kim Min-seok met with Japan's Ambassador to South Korea Mizushima Koichi in Seoul on Thursday. 

Kim is considered a close aide to South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. He served as prime minister from the start of Lee's administration before becoming the party's head in August. The meeting was Kim's first with Mizushima since taking over as party leader.

Kim pointed to progress in their leaders' mutual visits, known as "shuttle diplomacy," and exchanges between citizens. Mizushima described South Korea as an important partner in tackling the many challenges facing the international community.