S.Korean PM: Resolving statue issue will take time

South Korea's prime minister says he will seek suggestions from government officials on ways to resolve the issue with Japan over a statue symbolizing those referred to as wartime comfort women.

The Japanese Government is strongly protesting the statue. It was placed by a civic group in front of the Japanese Consulate-General in Busan.

There is also a move to install a similar statue by another group on the Takeshima Islands, which South Korea calls Dokdo. The country controls the islands, while Japan claims them.

Hwang Kyo-ahn, the country's acting president, said in a news conference that the government cannot interfere with actions by private citizens.

But he added the issue needs to be resolved to maintain Japan-South Korea bilateral relations. He indicated his wish to discuss the matter through various channels.

He did not mention what steps could be taken to resolve the issue, beyond saying it would take time.

Hwang also said the government wants to work closely with the new US administration of President Donald Trump. He mentioned further developing bilateral and economic ties, and dealing with North Korea's nuclear program.