The Intelligence from The Economist Ex-Seoul-mate: Japan-South Korea spat escalates
Aug 28, 2019
Lena Shipper, the Seoul Bureau Chief, sheds light on the escalating tensions between Japan and South Korea, centering on the contentious Dokto and Takashima islands. She discusses how historical grievances from World War II continue to fuel nationalistic sentiments and complicate diplomatic relations. The conversation also touches on Japan's restrictive trade practices and South Korea's military actions, revealing the broader implications for regional stability. Tune in for sharp insights into this long-standing conflict and its modern-day ramifications.
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Disputed Islands
- Tiny islands disputed by South Korea and Japan lie between them.
- These islands, called Dokto and Takeshima, are central to the conflict.
Historical Context
- The islands have been disputed since the end of World War II.
- Japan's occupation of Korea and related atrocities fuel resentment.
Politicization of History
- The current conflict is partly due to the politicization of historical tensions.
- Both governments exploit the issue for their nationalist base.