South Korea won't attend a memorial near Japan's Sado Island Gold Mines due to ongoing disagreements over historical grievances related to Korean forced labor. The diplomatic rift highlights continued friction between the two countries despite efforts by South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol to improve relations.

Gen Nakatani has expressed his eagerness to visit the country as soon as possible since taking office last month.

The top air force commanders of South Korea, the United States and Japan have held talks to discuss ways to strengthen their cooperation, such as expanding joint air drills, officials said.

South Korea’s President Yoon had made improving relations with Japan a priority following years of disputes of the two countries’ history.