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Sanae Takaichi (Takachi Sanae), 64 years old, leader of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), was sworn in as the 104th prime minister on the 21st, after former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. She marks the first woman to hold the position in the 140-year history of Japan’s parliamentary cabinet system.

In the initial round of voting during the House of Representatives (lower house) prime minister nomination election conducted at an emergency session of the National Diet that day, Takaichi received 237 votes, exceeding half, and was elected as prime minister. Despite Komeito, which had collaborated with the LDP for 26 years, leaving the coalition government, leading to a brief crisis, Takaichi successfully brought the conservative opposition party Japan Restoration Party into the coalition and became prime minister.

The beginning of the Takaichi government, which is recognized for its strict right-wing position, has brought focus to the future path of forward-looking South Korea-Japan relations that were set up under the previous Ishiba administration. Takaichi has issued firm remarks regarding historical and territorial matters from the past and has frequently visited the Yasukuni Shrine.

However, there are indications that “Prime Minister Takaichi” could be distinct. During her inauguration press conference that day, she mentioned, “South Korea is a significant neighboring country to Japan,” and further noted, “The significance of South Korea-Japan relations, a vital partnership, is increasing. I hope to engage in discussions with President Lee Jae-myung and communicate effectively.” Takaichi is set to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju later this month and will meet President Lee Jae-myung for the first time. President Lee also shared a congratulatory message on social media about Takaichi’s election as prime minister, stating, “I look forward to having productive conversations in Gyeongju.”

Takaichi named former Defense Minister Minoru Kihara as chief cabinet secretary, former LDP Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi as foreign minister, and former Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who ran against her in the presidential election, as defense minister.