K-pop Beats Bridge Diplomatic Gaps: Korea and Japan's Leaders Drum Together

Wed Feb 18 2026 11:26:50 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a surprising finale to a diplomatic summit, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi performed a K-pop drum duet, symbolizing a push for improved relations between the two nations.

The recently concluded summit between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi culminated in a lighthearted drumming session, where both leaders played popular K-pop hits like BTS's 'Dynamite'. This playful act marks a diplomatic shift as both nations seek to overcome historical grievances and enhance cooperation amid regional tensions. Social media reactions to their performance indicate a hopeful sentiment for future relations, as both leaders recognize the importance of collaboration for economic security and stability.

A surreal drum duet between two East Asian world leaders has set the internet abuzz - and put a spotlight on Japan and South Korea's diplomatic relationship.

Decked out in matching blue jackets, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday played drums to the beats of K-pop hits - including Dynamite by BTS and Golden from the hit film KPop Demon Hunters.

The performance, which nods to Takaichi's past life as a drummer in a heavy metal band, wrapped up Lee's official visit to Japan this week.

It’s also part of Lee's diplomatic overtures to regional powers including Japan, with whom South Korea has a fraught history but shares a security alliance.

The drumming session from Tuesday, which Lee described as a little clumsy has now spawned a viral video.

During Lee's visit to Nara, Takaichi's hometown, he gifted her a drum set. The two leaders also exchanged signed drumsticks after their performance.

When we met at APEC last year, [Lee] said it was his dream to play the drums, so we prepared a surprise, Takaichi later wrote on X.

Footage of the jam session has won praise on social media, with some commenting that music connects hearts at a deeper level than words could.

There have long been sore spots between the two neighbors, including historical grievances from Japan's colonial rule and territorial disputes. However, both countries are allies of the US and have worked together to counter China's increasing assertiveness in the region.

On Tuesday, Takaichi emphasized that cooperation between Japan, South Korea, and the US is crucial amid heightened tensions in the region's strategic environment.

Lee and Takaichi also agreed to strengthen economic ties, particularly important as China has been tightening its export restrictions.

Lee's adept diplomacy has garnered heightened approval ratings back home and shows his ability to navigate relationships between major powers.

Despite this, efforts to engage with North Korea have faced challenges, with Pyongyang steadfast in its unwillingness to reconcile.

Lee and Takaichi's session demonstrated a unique approach to diplomacy, blending fun with significant political undertones, encouraging reflections on more collaborative future relations.