South Korean Favorability Toward Japan Hits Highest Level Since 2013

A joint survey found that 54.3% ^[1] of South Koreans hold a positive impression of Japan, the highest level recorded since 2013 ^[1].

This shift suggests a thawing of long-standing diplomatic tensions between the two East Asian neighbors, driven by increased cultural exchange and strategic government engagement.

The online study was conducted by the East Asia Institute, a South Korean think tank, and the International House of Japan ^[2]. The researchers polled approximately 3,000 ^[1] men and women across both nations.

While the majority of South Koreans expressed a positive view, the sentiment in Japan remains lower but is trending upward. According to the data, 35.3% ^[1] of Japanese respondents hold a good impression of South Korea. This figure represents a 10.5 point ^[1] increase from the previous year.

Other reports on the same study indicated a slightly lower favorability rating for Japan among South Koreans at 52.4% ^[3]. Despite this variance, the overall trend indicates a significant peak in bilateral sentiment over the last decade.

Analysts said the rise in popularity is due to an expansion in travel, shopping, and general cultural exchange. The survey also points to the "shuttle diplomacy" efforts of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung as a key factor in improving public perception ^[2].

The results highlight a divergence in how the two populations perceive their neighbor, though both are moving toward a more positive consensus. The increase in Japanese favorability, rising by more than 10 points in a single year, suggests a rapid shift in public mood ^[1].