Press Conference by Minister Muto (Excerpt)

*Note: This is a provisional translation for reference purposes only.

8:32 to 8:36 a.m.
Friday, December 6, 2024
In front of the Cabinet Room, 2nd floor, National Diet Building

Opening Remarks

None

Question-and-Answer Session

Situation in the ROK

Q: The other day, President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea (ROK) declared martial law. Several hours later, the declaration was lifted, but there are concerns about the possible impact of the internal political turmoil in the ROK on the Japan-ROK relationship and the Japan-U.S.-ROK framework, which have until now been strengthened. Please offer your thoughts on this matter and tell me about your outlook on the impact on the economy and economic security.

A: Regarding the ROK-related matter that you are asking about, I will refrain from commenting on the internal political affairs of other countries on behalf of the government of Japan.

It is important to maintain and strengthen the bilateral cooperative relationship between Japan and the ROK and cooperative relationships with multiple countries, including Japan and the ROK, so we will closely monitor the situation.

As for the impact on local subsidiaries of Japanese companies, as of now, we have not received reports from the Seoul Japan Club, which is the local commerce and industry association  for Japan, concerning any impact on Japanese companies.

Support for Rapidus

Q: A media report said that you are considering a plan to invest in Rapidus through the IPA, or Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan, which is an independent administrative agency. Please tell me whether that report is factual, and if that is factual, please tell me what the purpose of the investment is.

A: We are scheduled to submit a bill to provide the necessary support for the mass production of the next-generation semiconductors to the next ordinary session of the Diet, including the expansion of investments and loans. As I have already told you, the details are still under consideration, so I would like you to give us a little more time. At the moment, we have no further information to share.