Economics

South Korea, Japan Strike Calmer Note After Months of Tension

Moon says he would welcome invitation to talk with Japan
Abe avoids visiting controversial shrine on war anniversary

South Koreans participate in a rally against Japan’s trade restrictions on South Korea, in Seoul on Aug. 14.Photographer: Jung Yeon-je/AFP via Getty Images

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Isabel Reynolds and Jihye Lee

August 14, 2019 at 3:01 PM UTC

Updated on

August 15, 2019 at 8:13 AM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Terms of Trade is a daily newsletter that untangles a world embroiled in trade wars. Sign up here.

Japan and South Korea are showing signs they may be willing to ease the tensions of recent months, with South Korean President Moon Jae-in softening criticism of Japan in a speech marking the anniversary of the end of World War II.