South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said Wednesday that Japan has transformed into a partner from a "militaristic aggressor in the past," highlighting his readiness to improve bilateral ties. Seoul proposed in January that a South Korean foundation could pay money to the plaintiffs on behalf of the Japanese companies, while also calling for a "sincere response" from Tokyo. "Related coverage:Korea-Japan leaders may watch baseball together in Tokyo: reportSouth Korean temple loses Buddha statue ownership case to JapanFEATURE: South Korean, Japanese, other Asian writers publish anthology