I’d swear that I heard reasons for hope in the bilateral relationship at a (virtual) conference last week on Japan-South Korean relations.
I sensed a subtle shift in thinking in Seoul about Japan, an evolution that reflected an evolving external environment. Seasoned observers of the bilateral relationship warned, however, that there isn’t a shift in South Korea so much as growing awareness (among outsiders) of the diversity of views within the country.
Regardless of which view is correct — and the latter is compelling — both underscore a key, underappreciated point: The sad state of relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK) is the result of political decisions. That is an unpopular view since it is more fashionable — and easier — to blame “structural factors.” Instead, the focus belongs on individual decisions, particularly those that weaponize foreign policy to serve domestic political interests.