Japan PM Takaichi vows 'breakthrough' on North Korea abductions, eyes summit

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Saturday declared her determination to achieve a “breakthrough” in the decades-long abduction issue with North Korea, signaling openness to summit talks with leader Kim Jong-un. Speaking at a Tokyo rally organized by families of abductees, Takaichi urged Kim to take a “courageous step” together for mutual benefit. “Whatever it takes, I will resolve the abduction issue by making a breakthrough during my time (in office),” said Takaichi, who took power last October. She emphasized not missing the slightest chance for progress, even by a day or an hour.

Japan officially lists 17 nationals abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. Only five were returned in 2002 after then-Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi met Kim Jong-il in Pyongyang — the first-ever summit between the two nations, which still lack diplomatic ties. No summit has occurred since 2004, when Koizumi and Kim met again. Takaichi's vow signals a potential shift, though previous attempts at engagement have stalled. Her administration faces pressure from families and conservative supporters to prioritize the issue, while balancing regional security dynamics involving North Korea's missile programs.