South Korea Protests Japan’s Territorial Claims Over Disputed Islands

South Korea’s Defence Ministry summoned Japan’s defence attache on July 15, 2023, in response to Japan’s annual white paper that reiterated territorial claims over disputed islands in the East Sea. The islands, known as Dokdo in Korean and Takeshima in Japanese, have been a point of contention between the two nations for decades.

In a formal statement, South Korea’s international affairs chief, Lee Kwang-seok, expressed strong disapproval of Japan’s claims. He demanded the immediate removal of the territorial assertions from the white paper, emphasizing that South Korea will “sternly respond to any attempts to harm sovereignty over the Dokdo islands.”

Longstanding Tensions Over Dokdo/Takeshima

The islands lie approximately halfway between South Korea and Japan and have been under South Korean control, with a small contingent of coast guards stationed there. Despite this, Japan has consistently included the islands in its annual defence documents, asserting its claims and leading to official protests from Seoul each time.

The latest inclusion in the 2023 defence white paper marks yet another chapter in a long history of disputes between the two countries over these territories. Both nations assert their historical rights to the islands, which has led to heightened tensions in diplomatic relations.

Implications for Bilateral Relations

The South Korean government’s response highlights the sensitive nature of territorial disputes in East Asia. The ongoing disagreement over Dokdo/Takeshima represents not only a territorial conflict but also a broader struggle involving national pride and historical grievances.

The summoning of the Japanese defence attache signals a firm stance from South Korea, reflecting its commitment to protecting what it considers its sovereign territory. As both countries navigate these complex issues, the potential for diplomatic fallout remains significant, given the intertwined histories and national sentiments involved.

This incident serves as a reminder of the fragile nature of diplomatic relations in the region and the importance of dialogue in resolving longstanding disputes.