Japan’s political landscape is shifting further to the right under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, posing new challenges for its diplomatic ties with South Korea. This conservative tilt could reignite historical and territorial disputes, potentially threatening the recent strides made in their bilateral relationship. Traditionally, the two nations have employed a “two-track” strategy, keeping contentious historical issues separate from areas like security and economic cooperation that require close collaboration. However, according to a recent report by South Korea’s Institute for National Security Strategy, Japan’s political instability and rightward drift could jeopardize this diplomatic progress.
The fragile diplomatic balance is being tested by renewed tensions, particularly following visits by Japanese politicians to the Yasukuni Shrine, a site that South Korea finds controversial. Additionally, Japan has reiterated its territorial claim over the Dokdo islets, known as Takeshima in Japan, which are currently under South Korean control. Prime Minister Takaichi, while opting not to visit the shrine during the anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender, sent a ritual offering instead. Nonetheless, visits by several senior Japanese officials to the shrine have prompted formal diplomatic protests from South Korea.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is adopting a more nuanced stance, balancing the acknowledgment of historical grievances with a recognition of the growing importance of cooperation with Japan. This approach highlights the complexity of the situation, where maintaining a cooperative relationship is increasingly vital despite the unresolved historical issues.
Experts caution that if both nations do not make tangible progress in resolving these disputes, the “two-track” strategy might falter. Historical grievances, territorial claims, and wartime-related controversies continue to simmer beneath the surface, threatening to derail diplomatic efforts unless Japan and South Korea can expand their practical cooperation and achieve meaningful reconciliation.