South Korea Slams Japan Leader’s Controversial Shrine Tribute

South Korea has lashed out at Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba over his ritual offering to Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine, a site infamous for honoring WWII war criminals. The move reignites historical tensions between the two neighbors.

Why It Matters: The shrine enshrines 14 Class-A war criminals, including former Prime Minister Hideki Tojo, and is seen as a symbol of Japan's wartime aggression. The annual spring festival tribute sparked immediate backlash from Seoul, which called the act 'deeply disappointing.'

Seoul's Stand: South Korea's foreign ministry urged Japanese leaders to 'squarely face history' and demonstrate 'sincere remorse,' emphasizing that mutual trust is key to future relations.

Behind the Controversy: For decades, visits or tributes to Yasukuni by Japanese officials have angered countries impacted by Japan's wartime actions. While Ishiba skipped visiting in person this year, his 'masakaki' tree offering kept the debate alive.

Bigger Picture: The spat highlights ongoing friction in Asia over unresolved historical grievances. With younger generations seeking regional cooperation, gestures like these risk undermining diplomatic progress.

Reference(s):

S. Korea voices deep regret over Ishiba's offering to Yasukuni Shrine

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