Japan’s political landscape is shifting towards a more conservative stance under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, a development that is beginning to strain relations with South Korea. This shift raises concerns that longstanding disputes over history and territory could jeopardize the diplomatic progress made between the two countries. Historically, South Korea and Japan have maintained a “two-track” approach, separating contentious historical issues from realms where collaboration is essential, such as security and economic ties. However, a recent report by South Korea’s Institute for National Security Strategy highlights the potential for Japan’s internal political changes to disrupt this delicate balance, potentially stalling diplomatic advancements.
Tensions between the two nations have been reignited due to recent actions by Japan, including visits by Japanese politicians to the Yasukuni Shrine, which is seen as controversial by many in the region. Additionally, Japan’s renewed claim over Dokdo—referred to as Takeshima in Japan—has further strained relations. The islets are currently under South Korean control, and Japan’s territorial assertions have been met with strong reactions from Seoul.
During the commemoration of Japan’s World War II surrender on August 15, Prime Minister Takaichi opted not to visit the Yasukuni Shrine, choosing instead to send a ritual offering. Despite this, several high-ranking Japanese officials did visit the shrine, prompting South Korea to lodge formal protests. These gestures are perceived by South Korea as insensitive to its historical grievances, further complicating the diplomatic landscape.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung appears to be taking a balanced approach in response to these developments. While acknowledging the historical grievances that persist, he continues to stress the importance of maintaining cooperative relations with Japan. This approach underscores the critical need for collaboration between the two nations, particularly in areas where mutual interests align.
Experts warn that unresolved historical contentions, together with territorial and wartime-related disputes, pose significant threats to the “two-track” strategy that has so far characterized Japan-South Korea relations. They emphasize that without concrete progress and expanded practical cooperation, these issues could undermine the diplomatic efforts that have been made to date, potentially setting back relations between the two countries.