The head of South Korea's intelligence agency was in Tokyo on Monday.
Suh Hoon briefed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on his recent visit to the North Korean capital.
They agreed that improving Japan's ties with North Korea is important in denuclearizing the Peninsula.
Kan Hyeong-woo reports.
On Monday morning, South Korea's national intelligence agency chief, Suh Hoon, briefed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on his latest visit to Pyeongyang.

They both agreed that alongside the North's improving ties with South Korea and the United States, its relationship with Japan needs mending too.

Prime Minister Abe even said it's time for him to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

Suh Hoon also delivered a message from President Moon,... saying that the Japanese leader's role in denuclearizing the North and in establishing peace is more important than ever,... so communication and cooperation between South Korea and Japan needs to be strengthened.

He added that the South Korean government also believes ties should be improved between North Korea and Japan,... and that Seoul is willing to take action to that end.

Suh also stressed the need to come up with creative ways to carry out the North Korean leader's commitment to complete denuclearization.

Abe expressed his gratitude for the quick briefing,... adding that it's a good chance to let the world know how much Seoul and Tokyo relations have improved since President Moon took office.

The South Korean intelligence chief's trip to Tokyo is viewed as a part of Seoul's efforts to have the regional power's support... before the inter-Korean summit next week.
Kan Hyeong-woo, Arirang News.