South Korea Protests Japan’s ‘Takeshima Day’ Ceremony

Dokdo Islets Dispute Rekindles Japan–Korea Tensions

South Korea has lodged a strong diplomatic protest against Japan following the annual “Takeshima Day” ceremony organised by Shimane prefecture. Seoul described the observance as an unjust assertion of sovereignty over territory it considers indisputably its own. The event, attended by a senior Japanese government representative, has once again intensified tensions between the two nations.

Controversy Over ‘Takeshima Day’

Instituted in 2005, “Takeshima Day” is intended by Shimane prefecture to reinforce Japan’s claim over the disputed islets. South Korea views the ceremony as a diplomatic provocation and has urged Tokyo to abolish the observance.

Seoul reiterated its position that any Japanese claim over the territory — known as Dokdo in South Korea — is unacceptable.

Historical Background of the Dispute

The territorial disagreement traces back to Japan’s colonial rule over the Korean Peninsula (1910–1945). The islets, referred to as Takeshima in Japan and Dokdo in South Korea, consist of two principal islets and several smaller rocky outcrops located in the Sea of Japan (East Sea) .

South Korea has maintained effective administrative control since 1954 through a permanent coastguard presence.

Diplomatic Developments

South Korea summoned a Japanese diplomatic representative to formally protest both the ceremony and recent sovereignty-related statements by Japanese officials. Seoul asserts that Dokdo is its sovereign territory based on historical, geographical, and legal grounds.

Strategic Importance

Beyond symbolism, the islets hold economic and strategic value. They are situated in resource-rich fishing areas and are associated with maritime boundary considerations, including Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs).

Exam-Focused Key Points

• Dokdo/Takeshima dispute involves South Korea and Japan.

• Islets located in Sea of Japan (East Sea).

• South Korea controls Dokdo since 1954.

• Dispute linked to colonial history (1910–1945).

• EEZ and maritime resources drive territorial conflicts.