Why is South Korea Protesting Japan's Claim to Dokdo?
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Synopsis
In a significant diplomatic incident, South Korea has expressed strong discontent over Japan's renewed territorial claims to Dokdo in its latest defense white paper. This ongoing dispute has deep historical roots, making it a focal point of tensions between the two nations. Discover the implications of these claims and South Korea's firm stance on the issue.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea protests Japan's claim to the Dokdo islets.
- Japan's defense white paper reaffirms its position on the islets.
- Both nations have historical claims to the territory.
- South Korea maintains effective control over Dokdo.
- The dispute continues to cause diplomatic tensions.
Seoul, July 15 (NationPress) The South Korean government has issued a strong protest after Japan once again asserted its territorial claim to the Dokdo islets in this year's defense white paper, summoning officials from the Japanese Embassy to express their discontent.
The spokesperson for South Korea's foreign ministry stated, "The government is firmly against Japan's unjust claim to Dokdo," emphasizing that the islets are recognized as South Korean territory based on historical, geographical, and international law.
They further demanded an immediate withdrawal of Japan's claim, warning that the South Korean government would respond decisively to any provocations concerning Dokdo.
The defense ministry echoed these sentiments, pledging a stern response to any actions that may threaten the nation's territorial integrity.
Officials from the Japanese Embassy in Seoul were called in to receive complaints, according to a report by the Yonhap news agency.
The foreign ministry summoned Yoshiyasu Iseki, the acting minister of the embassy, to formally protest, while the defense ministry called in the embassy's defense attaché.
Additionally, the foreign ministry expressed concerns over the renewed territorial claim and the publication of a children's edition of the defense white paper, which also asserts Japan's sovereignty over Dokdo.
This children's version of the defense white paper, previously available only online since 2021, was printed and distributed to elementary schools for the first time this year.
Following a Cabinet meeting earlier in the day, the Japanese government published its annual defense white paper, referring to Dokdo by its Japanese name, Takeshima, and asserting it as part of Japan's territory.
The white paper stated that the territorial disputes over the islets "remain unresolved," marking the 21st consecutive year the document has included Japan's claim to Dokdo.
The issue of Dokdo has long been a source of tension between Japan and South Korea, with Tokyo consistently reiterating its claims in policy documents, public statements, and educational materials.
South Korea, meanwhile, maintains a small police presence on the islets, ensuring effective control over them.
Point of View
It is crucial to present the ongoing territorial dispute over Dokdo with clarity. Both South Korea and Japan have deep-rooted historical narratives regarding the islets, and as tensions rise, it is essential to consider diplomatic solutions that respect the perspectives of both nations while prioritizing peace in the region.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered South Korea's protest against Japan?
South Korea protested after Japan reiterated its territorial claim to the Dokdo islets in its defense white paper.
How has Japan referred to the Dokdo islets?
Japan refers to the Dokdo islets as Takeshima in its official documents.
What steps did South Korea take in response to Japan's claim?
South Korea summoned Japanese Embassy officials to lodge a formal complaint and issued a strong statement against Japan's claims.
Why are the Dokdo islets significant?
Dokdo islets are significant due to their historical, geographical, and strategic importance, leading to ongoing territorial disputes.
How does the public perceive the Dokdo issue?
The public in South Korea views the Dokdo issue with national pride, seeing it as a symbol of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
