In Vientiane, Laos, President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japan's newly elected Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba engaged in discussions regarding a new bilateral travel agreement aimed at facilitating easier movement for their citizens through a simplified immigration process. Yoon's office announced that both leaders committed to expediting talks on this initiative. During a recent news conference, Yoon expressed optimism that travel between South Korea and Japan could surpass 10 million this year, while also highlighting plans for joint research in hydrogen, ammonia, and quantum technology. During their meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit, Yoon and Ishiba emphasized the importance of maintaining active communication and shuttle diplomacy as they prepare for the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization between their countries next year. Yoon expressed a desire to strengthen Korea-Japan relations and build upon the progress made during Fumio Kishida's tenure, while Ishiba acknowledged that close cooperation is vital for regional stability. The summit followed recent defense talks between the two nations, although historical grievances were not part of their discussions.