Japan PM Takaichi Seeks Summit with North Korea Over Abducted Citizens

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has formally requested a summit meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to address the unresolved issue of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. North Korea admitted in 2002 to kidnapping 13 Japanese nationals to train spies, though Japan believes at least 17 were taken, with some families still seeking closure. Takaichi emphasized the abduction issue as a priority for her cabinet and expressed determination to resolve it using any means necessary, signaling a new proactive approach compared to past Japanese leaders who have tried and failed to hold direct talks with Pyongyang. Previous efforts included former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's visits in 2002 and 2004, which resulted in the return of five abductees, but many remain missing with North Korea disputing the number and status of the victims. Japan has also sought to maintain international attention on the issue, including support from U.S. President Donald Trump, who met with abductees' families during a recent visit to Tokyo. Takaichi's call for a direct summit aims to build a new relationship with North Korea and resolve a longstanding diplomatic and humanitarian challenge.