Japan and South Korea are once again arguing over the Dokdo issue!

Japanese Foreign Minister Reiterates Sovereignty over Takeshima, South Korea Quickly Issues Strong Protest

On February 20 local time, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono made a speech in the Diet, stating that Takeshima (called Dokdo by South Korea) is an inherent territory of Japan based on historical facts and international law. On the same day, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement strongly protesting Japan's claim, urging Japan to immediately withdraw its inappropriate position. The Director of the Asia-Pacific Bureau, Kim Sang-hoon, summoned Japanese Ambassador to South Korea Matsuo Yuki to convey a firm stance. South Korea emphasized that Dokdo is an inherent territory of South Korea, and Japan's actions are not conducive to bilateral relations.

Japan Holds "Takeshima Day" Event, South Korea Once Again Protests and Demands Cancellation of the Event

On February 22, Japan's Shimane Prefecture held the 21st "Takeshima Day" commemoration ceremony, with a senior official from the Japanese government attending. On the same day, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued another statement strongly protesting Japan's event and sovereignty claims, firmly urging Japan to abolish the "Takeshima Day" ordinance and cease all inappropriate claims. South Korea also once again summoned Japanese Ambassador Matsuo Yuki to reiterate its determination to respond resolutely to any provocation.

Two days, two rounds of diplomatic confrontation, the Japan-South Korea relationship faces renewed tension due to the Dokdo dispute

Following the protest triggered by the Japanese foreign minister's remarks on Dokdo on the 20th, the "Takeshima Day" event on the 22nd further escalated tensions. South Korea summoned the Japanese ambassador twice within two days and issued protest statements. This territorial dispute has once again severely damaged the already slightly improved Japan-South Korea relationship, causing damage to bilateral political trust, and potentially further disrupting security and economic cooperation as well as the trilateral U.S.-Japan-South Korea collaboration process.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1857832299757595/

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