A Hurdle beyond History: Japan's Changing Perception of the DPRK Nuclear Threat and Its Impact on Korea-Japan Relations

摘要

Is the phrase, "History controls Korea-Japan relations," the most accurate assessment of the situation? Some experts contend that the relationship after World War II is one of being "distant countries," despite being so near. This assertion has maintained a certain validity even after the "normalization" of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations in 1965. In fact, the above description is very precise when it comes to describing the relationship between the two countries, which is complicated because of Japan's colonization of Korea. Recognition of the fact that history is a pending issue for both countries is unavoidable.