Ministry of Foreign Affairs Demands Responsible Response from Japanese Government on Fukushima Contaminated Water

Demanding Responsible Response and Communication

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] Japan plans to release contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the sea as early as this spring. On the 27th, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it has demanded responsible responses regarding this matter.

On the 13th, the Japanese government held a ministerial meeting related to the discharge from Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant and decided to release the contaminated water stored in tanks this spring or summer. Japan plans to dilute the contaminated water to less than 1,500 becquerels (Bq) per liter, which is 1/40th of its domestic regulatory standard, before discharging it into the sea.

An official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told reporters that regarding the diplomatic response to the Fukushima contaminated water discharge, "We have been maintaining close bilateral communication and consultations with Japan, conveying our concerns, and demanding that Japan provide timely and transparent information for our safety review and respond responsibly."

He added, "Multilaterally, we have been reviewing transparent and objective safety verification related to the contaminated water disposal with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) during its regular board meetings and the September general conference, and our expert research institutions are actively participating in the IAEA verification activities."

He further explained, "Regarding international legal responses, we have been conducting in-depth reviews of Japan's obligations under international law and dispute resolution procedures available under international law. We have also continued efforts to understand related laws and facts while listening to various opinions, including those of reputable international law experts and scientists both domestically and abroad."

Additionally, when asked whether the government would discuss again with Japan the results of the domestic simulation of Fukushima contaminated water inflow, which is scheduled to be announced next month, he replied, "We continue to communicate with Japan and consistently convey our concerns."