South Korea has announced its consideration for joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), adding another factor to the economic power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. Bilateral discussions with existing TPP member countries will likely be in order, as Korea considers the potential benefits against possible drawbacks. The timing, process, and potential consequences of this decision can impact not just Korea, but the wider Pacific region.

Japan, one of the eleven countries in the TPP, has a strong interest in South Korea's potential entry. The integration of its neighboring economy into the partnership can affect both countries' economies and bilateral relations. Furthermore, Japan has a vested interest in maintaining the power balance within the TPP and would monitor South Korea's addition carefully.

Unlike in the US, where the Trump administration withdrew from the TPP, and the uncertainty surrounding such agreements in European Union nations like the UK post-Brexit, Japan and other Asian nations seem more steadfast in their commitment to multinational trade agreements. The inclusion of another major economy like South Korea may further solidify this commitment.