The prime ministers of Japan and South Korea have convened in Nara, the hometown of Japan's leader Takami Eto. As strained relations between the two East Asian nations persist, this meeting, held amid the unique backdrop of Nara, fuels hope for progress in strengthening diplomatic ties. The dialogue topics remain under wraps, but they are predicted to focus on longstanding issues such as trade disputes and war-related disputes.

Japan's diplomatic ties with South Korea have historically been tense due to conflicting views on wartime history and territorial disputes, among other reasons. With the meeting being held in Mr. Eto's hometown, Japanese nationals appreciate the highly personal touch, expecting this might bolster the chances of a smooth dialogue.

Similar to the high-stakes diplomatic encounters in the EU and US, such as US-President-Chinese Leader meetings amid ongoing trade wars, the Japan-South Korea summit carries substantial import for the region's geopolitical dynamics. It also showcases the common practice worldwide of leaders hosting foreign counterparts in their hometowns or culturally significant regions, as a gesture of goodwill.