Numbering Instead of 'Donghae·Ilbonhae'... Japan's Growing Concern Over Spread of Donghae Notation

As this measure rapidly gains traction at the November International Hydrographic Organization,
Japan expresses concern that South Korea's offensive to include 'Donghae' will intensify

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] In November, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) is considering assigning identification numbers instead of using "East Sea" or "Sea of Japan," raising concerns in Japan about the spread of the East Sea notation.

The IHO explained that this measure is to respond to the digital era by assigning identification numbers rather than using the names East Sea or Sea of Japan.

On the 22nd, Japan's Kyodo News reported that this move is interpreted as a desire to end the confrontation between Japan and Korea within the IHO framework.

However, it remains unclear how much this change will be reflected in general maps produced by the private sector. Kyodo News also reported that Korea is expected to continue efforts to promote the dual notation of East Sea in the international community.

The right-wing Sankei Shimbun reported on the 22nd that "If the Sea of Japan is replaced by numbers, Korea is likely to intensify its offensive in the international community to promote the dual notation of East Sea."

Although the Japanese government did not issue an official response due to the holiday on that day, Japanese netizens criticized their government for not fulfilling its role and expressed blame toward Korea.

Japanese netizens expressed dissatisfaction, saying, "If this is true, what has the Japanese government been doing until now?" and "The Sea of Japan has been labeled as such worldwide for decades, so why is it suddenly necessary to also include the East Sea?"