The Times reports that this fight over Line could hurt the improving relationship between Japan and South Korea. The two countries have had problems in the past because Japan ruled Korea many years ago. The dispute comes at a sensitive time for Japan-South Korea relations.
Maiko Takeuchi, regional managing director at CCSI, told the New York Times, “As we’ve seen many times in the past, relations between Japan and Korea shift, and smaller points of tension — whether they be wartime or modern — can quickly escalate to impact defence and diplomacy more broadly.”
Political Repercussions
In South Korea, opposition parties have criticised President Yoon Suk Yeol for his conciliatory approach towards Japan. Cho Kuk, an ally of the former president, called Yoon’s policies “humiliating.” Despite the controversy, both governments appear determined to prevent the issue from escalating. In late May, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Yoon agreed that the dispute should not interfere with diplomatic relations.
Impact on Broader Relations
Yul Sohn, president of the East Asia Institute in Seoul, told the New York Times that Japan’s handling of the Line ownership issue could significantly impact the broader trajectory of Japanese-Korean relations. “We are in a phase of recovering relations, but both parties are highly aware of what has happened in the past,” Sohn said. “Even with a stronger foundation built, there are still cracks that need to be reckoned with.”
The ownership dispute over Line is not just a business matter; it has deep-rooted historical implications that could reverberate through various facets of Japanese-South Korean relations. As both nations navigate this sensitive issue, the world watches closely, understanding that the outcome could set a precedent for future diplomatic engagements.
