Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung created a viral moment after their summit in Nara by playing drums together to popular K-pop hits.
Takaichi, a former heavy metal band member, drummed energetically while Lee admitted he felt “a little awkward” initially. The leaders shared photos of the jam session on X, dressed in matching blue sports tops with their names on them.
Dear Editor-in-Chief Maxy! Here’s a video of our proud
Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, a huge Iron Maiden and
Judas Priest fan, giving South Korean President Lee Jae
Myung some drumming practice!
“Metal knows no borders!” 🤘
[🎥 Prime Minister’s Office/YouTube ] pic.twitter.com/o0Hd7axXF1— Spoon (@Spoon_wonderful) January 14, 2026
Leaders Agree to Strengthen Economic and Regional Cooperation
During their talks, the two leaders committed to enhancing cooperation on economic security and regional and global issues, according to South Korea’s presidential office. Takaichi emphasized that the countries “should cooperate to ensure regional stability.”
K-Pop Drum Session: BTS’s ‘Dynamite’ and ‘Golden’
Takaichi revealed on X that the drum session was a surprise for Lee, who had mentioned at last year’s APEC summit that he always wanted to play the drums. They performed “Dynamite” by BTS and “Golden” from the animated film KPop Demon Hunters. A video clip showed Takaichi drumming with a huge smile while Lee noted, “It was a little awkward at first, but the more I tapped, the more the sound came together.”
Leaders Highlight Future-Oriented Japan-South Korea Ties
Lee said, “We shared the same intention to keep the rhythm even when the beats were slightly different. We will work together with one heart to build a future-oriented relationship between South Korea and Japan.” The leaders also visited one of Japan’s oldest temples in Nara before Lee’s departure later on Wednesday.
Backdrop of Rising Japan-China Tensions
The summit occurred amid rising tensions between Japan and China, triggered by Takaichi’s remark in November that Japan could intervene militarily if China attacked Taiwan. Lee stressed the importance of cooperation between the two US allies, saying, “In this increasingly complex situation and within this rapidly changing international order, we must continue to make progress toward a better future.”
Historical Context of Japan-South Korea Relations
Relations between Tokyo and Seoul remain sensitive due to Japan’s colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945. Lee’s predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, had attempted to improve ties with Japan before being removed from office in December 2024. Lee, more dovish toward North Korea, described South Korea and Japan as “neighbors sharing a front yard,” highlighting the importance of collaboration despite historical tensions.
