Local Media Advise Japanese Prime Minister: "Do Not Provoke South Korea on Takeshima Day"

Nikkei: "To Counterbalance Both the United States and China"
"Takaichi Must Make a Realistic Decision"

Local Japanese media outlets have advised Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi not to provoke South Korea ahead of "Takeshima Day" (the name Japan uses for Dokdo), which is claimed by both countries. Takeshima Day is hosted annually by Shimane Prefecture, and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party has previously sent government officials to the event.

Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei) asserted on January 8 that South Korea and Japan should cooperate as "middle powers." The term "middle power" refers to countries that, while not major powers, wield significant influence in international politics and economics.

Takeshima Day event held on February 22, 2024. Photo by Kyodo News

Nikkei argued that focusing solely on the two major powers-the United States and China-when assessing the current situation would be disadvantageous for both South Korea and Japan, stating, "A close Korea-Japan relationship is important, not least to provide a counterbalance to both the United States and China."

The article went on to say, "It goes without saying that public sentiment in both countries is important in diplomacy between South Korea and Japan. However, the security environment of both countries, and the economic environment that supports it, are even more important."

The outlet acknowledged that there are complex public sentiments between South Korea and Japan, but emphasized, "Now is not the time to be bound by these issues." Regarding the annual Takeshima Day event held on February 22, it stated, "While Prime Minister Takaichi's 'rock-solid supporters' may not allow it, as a realist politician, Prime Minister Takaichi must make a higher-level decision."

Meanwhile, the Japanese government sent vice-ministerial-level officials to Takeshima Day for 13 consecutive years, from 2013 until last year. Shortly after taking office in October last year, Prime Minister Takaichi stated at a press conference, "Takeshima is, in terms of historical fact and under international law, inherently Japanese territory." However, regarding whether a cabinet-level minister will be sent to the Takeshima Day event, the government has only said it will "respond appropriately."