Japan: To Washington via Seoul

Nakasone tries to show he is a strong and reliable ally

The scene of international camaraderie in Seoul's presidential Blue House last week was truly extraordinary. Following a formal state dinner, South Korean President Chun Doo Hwan, 51, and Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone, 64, retired for a "second session," a hard-drinking Oriental stag party. As the liquor flowed, the two leaders took turns belting out favorite songs at each other. Among Nakasone's three choices was a hit Korean romantic tune from 1961: Noran (Yellow) Shirts. For his part, Chun serenaded his guest with Kage O Shitaite (Searching for Your Shadows),...

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