South Korea and Japan Sign Defense AI and Rescue Pact

Defense leaders from South Korea and Japan met in Seoul on June 28, 2026, to sign a landmark cooperation agreement ^[1]. The deal focuses on integrating artificial intelligence into defense and developing advanced military technologies ^[1][2]. Both nations also pledged to revive joint maritime search-and-rescue exercises ^[1].

During the high-level talks, the defense chiefs reaffirmed their shared goal of regional denuclearization ^[3]. They emphasized the importance of deepening defense exchanges to maintain security in East Asia ^[2][3]. This meeting marks a significant effort to strengthen security ties between the two neighboring countries ^[1].