In the latest escalation in the feud between the Asian neighbors, the Japanese industry ministry on Tuesday questioned the rationale behind South Korea's decision in mid-August to remove Japan from a list of its preferred trading partners.

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry submitted its opinion to South Korea regarding the decision announced on Aug. 12 to end Japan's preferential trade status, apparently in direct response to Tokyo's earlier revocation of Seoul's trusted trade status.

The ministry sent its opinion and sought clarification for reasons behind the plan to tighten trade controls as the South Korean government is currently accepting public comments on the matter.