Foreign Ministry on Japan's Counterattack Capability 'South Korea's Consent' Disagreement: "Japan Also Aware of Our Position"

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Hee-jun] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its position that "further discussions can continue within the broader framework of ROK-US-Japan security cooperation" regarding whether the South Korean government's consent is required when Japan exercises its so-called 'counterattack capability' targeting the Korean Peninsula.

At a regular briefing on the 20th, Senior Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lim said, "We are paying attention to the fact that the security strategy document adopted by the Japanese Cabinet includes content stating that Japan can exercise this capability under strict conditions without changing the concept of exclusive defense (專守防衛, meaning defense force can only be used if attacked) within the Japanese Constitution."

He reiterated, "For matters that have a significant impact on the security of the Korean Peninsula and our national interests, such as exercising counterattack capability targeting the Korean Peninsula, close prior consultation and consent with us are absolutely necessary."

In this regard, a Foreign Ministry official told reporters, "Regarding foreign military intervention in our territory, prior consultation and consent with us are naturally required," adding, "We believe Japan is fully aware of our position on this matter."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the same position immediately after Japan decided on the 16th to revise three major security documents, including the possession of counterattack capability capable of striking enemy missile bases.

However, on the same day, a Japanese government official showed a difference in opinion during a briefing for foreign media when asked, "Will Japan consult with the South Korean government if it exercises counterattack capability against North Korea?" The official responded, "Exercising counterattack capability is an exercise of Japan's right to self-defense and does not require permission from other countries. Japan will decide independently."

In response, the South Korean presidential office additionally stated, "Further discussions are possible within the broader framework of ROK-US-Japan security cooperation." Discussing the conditions for Japan's exercise of counterattack capability targeting the Korean Peninsula within the ROK-US-Japan security cooperation framework is because South Korea and Japan's responses in emergencies on the Korean Peninsula inevitably involve consultations with the United States.

Following this revision of security documents, Japan is expected to initiate discussions to readjust its role with the United States in defense policies, including revising the US-Japan Defense Cooperation Guidelines. In this process, issues related to emergency responses on the Korean Peninsula may be addressed. Therefore, there are also calls for South Korea to carefully analyze possible future scenarios and communicate with the United States regarding Japan's role in emergencies.