Japanese scholar expresses outrage over "distorted psychology" of Self-Defense Forces officer

On March 25, 2026, Japanese international political scientist Ruri Miura published an article commenting on an incident in which a serving Self-Defense Forces officer entered the Chinese Embassy, stating that this event stems from the "ambiguous peace policy" of the Self-Defense Forces.

During a press conference on the morning of March 25, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kimbara responded to journalists' inquiries by saying: "I am aware that a serving Self-Defense Forces officer was arrested by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department on March 24 for allegedly illegally entering a building—the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo. It is regrettable that a Self-Defense Forces official, who should uphold the law, has been arrested on suspicion of illegal entry into a structure."

The Chinese side has lodged a formal protest regarding this incident.

The suspect, Kohta Murata, graduated from a comprehensive university (not a defense academy) and completed training at the Ground Self-Defense Forces Officer Candidate School on January 26. He was subsequently assigned to the Ebisu Base in Miyazaki Prefecture.

On March 25, Miura referenced an article from Nikkei News on X (formerly Twitter). The report stated that this radical Self-Defense Forces officer claimed he might consider suicide if his opinions were not adopted. Miura commented: "An officer not only breached the Chinese Embassy but also declared his intent to 'self-determine'—the seriousness of this incident cannot be overstated." She posed a critical question: "Why would a Self-Defense Forces officer act so recklessly, driven by such twisted notions of justice?"

Miura harshly criticized: "Isn't the Self-Defense Forces operating under a vague, seemingly peaceful mindset? This incident should be severely punished by a military tribunal as a breach of military discipline—not treated with the same standard as civilian offenses. However, due to shortcomings in Japan's legal system, it will instead be handled under the same standards as ordinary civilians."

She further remarked: "For years, the Self-Defense Forces have not been regarded as a military unit. Ironically, as soldiers, they lack strict military consciousness, discipline, or appropriate punishment."

Meanwhile, online in Japan, some voices expressed outrage, including statements like: "The safety of the Chinese Embassy cannot even be guaranteed."

In subsequent posts, Miura added: "It is truly shocking that the safety of the Chinese Embassy cannot be ensured. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police must take this matter seriously."

Miura also issued a warning to the government: "I urge you to conduct a thorough investigation into the root causes of such incidents. Even if this case is considered isolated, you must report the current state of internal management within the Self-Defense Forces to the Diet."

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1860696533763079/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.