Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s political trajectory has shifted towards a more conservative stance, posing new challenges for its relationship with South Korea. This shift raises concerns about the impact on historical and territorial disputes, which could affect the diplomatic cooperation achieved so far. Historically, South Korea and Japan have followed a “two-track” approach, keeping contentious historical issues separate from areas like security and economic collaboration, where cooperation is crucial. However, a recent report from South Korea’s Institute for National Security Strategy cautions that Japan’s political stability and its rightward movement might jeopardize progress in bilateral relations.
Recent tensions have emerged as a result of visits by Japanese politicians to the Yasukuni Shrine, a site seen as controversial, and Japan’s reaffirmation of its territorial claim over Dokdo, known as Takeshima in Japan, which is currently under South Korean control. While Prime Minister Takaichi did not visit the shrine on August 15, the anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender, she did send a ritual offering. In contrast, several senior Japanese officials did visit, leading to formal protests from South Korea.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has adopted a more balanced stance, recognizing historical grievances but stressing the growing importance of cooperation with Japan. This approach underscores the delicate balance both nations are attempting to maintain between addressing past conflicts and fostering forward-looking collaboration.
Experts highlight the risk that lingering disputes over history, territorial claims, and wartime controversies might erode the effectiveness of the “two-track” strategy. They emphasize the necessity for both nations to achieve tangible diplomatic progress while simultaneously enhancing practical cooperation across various sectors.