China has called on Japan to confront its wartime past as tensions rise over proposed constitutional revisions. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized this week that Japan must “reflect deeply on its history of aggression” during World War II, which caused “profound suffering” across Asia and beyond. The statement comes as Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pushes to formally recognize the country’s Self-Defense Forces in its constitution.
🔥 Why it matters: Japan’s potential constitutional changes could reshape regional security dynamics. Lin reminded Tokyo that post-war agreements like the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation still define Japan’s international obligations as a defeated nation.
🌐 Global eyes: “This is why Japan’s constitutional amendment has been closely watched by the international community,” Lin stated, urging Japan to prioritize peace and win back trust through actions – not just words.
💡 Youth angle: With 2026 marking 81 years since WWII’s end, younger generations are engaging with this historical reckoning through viral TikTok explainers and anime-inspired peace campaigns. How Japan addresses its past could impact everything from K-pop collaborations to anime trade deals.
