Japanese-Language Videos from Yoon Supporters Gain Traction
Conspiracy Theories from South Korea Spread Among Japanese Conservatives
Local media in Japan have reported that conspiracy theories spread by domestic YouTubers supporting former President Yoon Seokyoul are now crossing borders and influencing Japanese audiences. On August 21, the Asahi Shimbun reported that far-right YouTubers in South Korea are framing their defense of former President Yoon as a "fight against anti-Japan forces," resonating with some Japanese viewers.
Former President Yoon Seokyoul, who was indicted on charges of leading an insurrection and abuse of authority obstructing the exercise of rights, appeared at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu on the morning of May 19 to attend a trial. Supporters are chanting "President Yoon Seokyoul." Photo by Joint Press Corps
Since former President Yoon declared martial law in December of last year, his supporters have continued to upload videos with Japanese subtitles and dubbing. This trend has accelerated as it has merged with the demand from conservative viewers in Japan. The rapid spread is also attributed to the fact that many Japanese users rely on video platforms as their main sources of news and information.
The Asahi Shimbun reported that these conspiracy theory videos originating in South Korea are also having an impact in Japan. For example, one piece of Japanese-language content titled "Now, we tell you why 10 million Koreans are fighting against pro-Japan opposition forces" has garnered nearly 1.68 million views. However, the Asahi Shimbun pointed out that, according to police statistics, there is no evidence that 10 million people participated in rallies supporting former President Yoon.
Comments on these videos in Japanese include statements such as "I am terrified that the Japanese media are not reporting on this at all," and "It's frightening that demonstrations of this scale are not being covered by the media." The Asahi Shimbun also reported that videos containing conspiracy theories about Chinese interference in fraudulent elections have attracted comments such as "Japan is also at risk because of China" and "Let's raise our voices to exclude pro-China politicians," reflecting anti-foreign sentiment.
Former President Yoon Sukyeol attended the third trial session on charges of leading a rebellion and abuse of authority at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the morning of May 12. Supporters are chanting Yoon Sukyeol's name. Photo by Joint Press Corps
The Asahi Shimbun also introduced expert perspectives on this phenomenon. Professor Masaki Hata of Osaka University of Economics stated, "People who are vulnerable to inaccuracies tend to believe in conspiracy theories," and added, "It's not surprising that those who want to support the Japan-friendly former President Yoon believe there is something behind the martial law." Kazuiro Terashita, a lecturer at the University of Tokyo, commented, "Even if Japanese people feel positively about Korea, they do not necessarily understand Korean politics well," and "It is not unusual for Japanese people to accept narratives that are convenient for themselves."
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