Sanae Takaichi's significant win in the recent House of Representatives election has sparked discussions about its implications for Japan-Korea relations. South Korean President Lee Jae-myung extended his congratulations via social media, highlighting a positive trajectory since their bilateral meeting in January. However, experts predict that while the immediate atmosphere between the two nations might be favorable, deeper issues could loom as Takaichi's government navigates complex geopolitical tensions, particularly with China.

Experts suggest that Takaichi is unlikely to take provocative actions against Korea immediately following his election triumph, which could lead to a temporary period of improved relations. Kim Sook-hyun, a researcher at the National Security Strategy Institute, noted that Takaichi would likely focus on domestic economic concerns first, rather than exacerbate tensions with Korea that could push it closer to China amid increasing Sino-Japanese conflicts. Additionally, Cho Yang-hyun from the National Diplomacy Institute expressed optimism grounded in the established trust between the two nations, despite a noticeable shift towards right-wing policies in Japan.

Despite concerns over sensitive issues like amending Japan's 'Peace Constitution' and visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, analysts believe that Takaichi will not aggressively push these policies in the near term. Although he holds a comfortable majority in the House of Representatives, the current opposition in the Senate hinders any immediate constitutional amendments. Thus, the immediate political landscape seems stable, but underlying tensions may resurface if not adequately managed in the future.