S. Korea Denounces Japan’s Contested Islets Sovereignty Claim

(MENAFN) South Korea issued a strong protest Tuesday following Japan’s reaffirmation of its territorial claim over contested islets located midway between the two nations, as highlighted in Japan’s latest defense white paper, media reported.

These islets are referred to as Dokdo by South Korea and Takeshima by Japan.

In an official statement, a spokesperson for South Korea’s Foreign Ministry declared, "The government strongly protests Japan's reiteration of its unjust territorial claim to Dokdo."

The spokesperson emphasized that the islets are recognized as South Korean territory based on “history, geography and international law,” demanding Japan immediately retract its claim.

The statement also warned that the South Korean government would take a firm stance against any further “provocations” from Japan concerning Dokdo.

To reinforce its position, South Korea plans to summon a representative from the Japanese embassy in Seoul later Tuesday to deliver a formal protest.

Earlier the same day, Japan published its annual defense white paper, once again referring to the islets by the name Takeshima and asserting them as Japanese territory.

The sovereignty dispute over Dokdo/Takeshima has long been a sensitive issue, with Japan persistently asserting claims through official policy documents, public declarations, and educational materials.

Meanwhile, South Korea maintains effective control of the islets through a small police presence stationed there.

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