In a move that underscores the delicate relations between South Korea and Japan, Seoul has boycotted a memorial ceremony to honour wartime forced labour victims held in Japan, opting instead to hold its separate commemoration just a day later. This diplomatic rift highlights ongoing sensitivities stemming from historical grievances linked to Japan’s colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945.
Background of the Dispute
The ceremony, organised on 24 November 2024 at the Sado mine in Japan, was attended by Akiko Ikuina, a parliamentary vice-minister from Japan’s foreign ministry. Her presence was controversial due to her past visit to the Yasukuni Shrine, a site viewed in South Korea as a symbol of Japan’s militarist history and associated war criminals. South Korea’s decision not to send officials was met with disappointment from Japanese Mayor Ryugo Watanabe, who expressed that the absence was “extremely regrettable”.
Seoul’s Memorial Event
On 25 November 2024, Korea conducted its memorial event, led by Ambassador Park Cheol-hee, accompanied by descendants of the original labourers. The event highlighted the plight of those forced to work under brutal conditions during the war. Ambassador Park urged both nations to remember their painful history, reinforcing the significance of acknowledging the past.
Recent Diplomatic Context
- Seoul and Tokyo have seen an improvement in relations over recent years, working collaboratively with the US on security issues.
- South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul noted that unresolved tensions should not derail these improved ties under President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has sought to overcome years of animosity.
- In 2024, South Korea reached a pact with Japan to explicitly mention forced labourers in events as part of supporting Japan’s bid for Sado mines recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
However, the history of forced labour remains a contentious issue, complicating the relationship as both nations navigate the legacy of their past.
Looking Ahead
As the governments of South Korea and Japan continue discussions, the commitment to commemorating shared history and addressing past grievances will be essential in fostering long-lasting peace and stability in the region. As they say, history has a funny way of showing up when you least expect it.