Right-Wing Shift in Japan Threatens South Korea’s APEC Goals

The upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit is set to take place in South Korea, intending to highlight the nation’s leadership on key issues such as free trade, digital technology, and democracy. However, the administration of President Lee Jae Myung faces significant challenges as shifting geopolitical dynamics, particularly in Japan, threaten to overshadow the event.

A potential meeting involving US President Donald Trump, Chinese leader Xi Jinping, and possibly North Korean leader Kim Jong Un could draw attention away from APEC discussions. Additionally, ongoing conflicts, such as the fragile ceasefire in Gaza and efforts by Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate a resolution to the Ukraine crisis, dominate international headlines.

Japan is currently experiencing a turbulent political landscape, with the recent resignation of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba leading to the election of hardline conservative Sanae Takaichi as the new leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). This political shift has raised concerns in South Korea regarding the future of bilateral relations, which had recently shown signs of improvement.

Instability in Japan’s Political Environment

Japan’s political instability is reminiscent of the early 1990s, a period marked by electoral setbacks for the LDP and a loss of power. Takaichi’s victory has generated controversy, particularly due to her close ties to the late Shinzo Abe and her conservative stance on historical issues. Her alignment with the LDP’s anti-reform faction has led to the dissolution of a long-standing coalition with the Buddhist Komeito party.

With the LDP lacking a majority in the legislature, Takaichi has had to form a minority government. This coalition has brought together the LDP and Nippon Ishin no Kai, a conservative opposition party, which places them just two seats short of a majority in the lower house. Takaichi is also seeking cooperation with the ultra-nationalist Sanseito party, further solidifying her right-wing agenda.

A parliamentary vote is scheduled for October 21, 2023, and the implications of this shift towards a right-wing government have alarmed many in South Korea. Former South Korean Ambassador to Japan Shin Kak-soo described Takaichi as a potential disaster for Korea-Japan relations, raising concerns about her hawkish approach.

Concerns Over Historical Reconciliation

Takaichi’s views on Japan’s wartime past have drawn sharp criticism. She has publicly stated that Japan’s defeat in World War II has led to a flawed narrative that portrays the country as a perpetual offender. In her perspective, the issue lies not in the actions taken during the war, but rather in Japan’s loss. This revisionist stance has been echoed in her statements, where she argues for a more assertive form of patriotism and historical memory.

Observers worry that this ideology may hinder reconciliation efforts between South Korea and Japan, which had seen some improvement in recent years. Takaichi has indicated that she plans to maintain her visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, a site that is controversial due to its association with Japan’s militaristic past. She has stated, “I will make a decision on how to pay my respects and pray for peace at an appropriate time and in an appropriate manner.”

As Takaichi prepares to assume power, her government will face the challenge of addressing the restoration of Korea-Japan relations while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Ishiba’s farewell address highlighted the importance of a healthy democracy and the need to learn from Japan’s history, a message that resonates in light of the current political climate.

The outcome of the APEC summit will depend significantly on how leaders from South Korea and Japan choose to engage with each other in this evolving context. In an ideal scenario, both nations could unite in addressing mutual challenges and fostering cooperation. However, the rise of a right-wing government in Japan poses a serious obstacle to these aspirations.

As the APEC gathering approaches, the geopolitical stakes remain high, with the potential for both collaboration and conflict hanging in the balance.