Takaichi Reaffirms Japan’s Claim to Dokdo, Sparks Korean Protest

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has once again asserted Japan’s claim to Dokdo, known as Takeshima in Japan, prompting a strong rebuke from South Korea. The renewed claim comes as Takaichi signals a potential shift towards greater official Japanese presence at events commemorating Japan’s claim to the islands.

South Korea Condemns “Provocative” Statement

The Democratic Party of Korea swiftly condemned Takaichi’s remarks as “irresponsible and provocative.” Party spokesman Kim Nam-guk stated that Takaichi’s assertion in the Japanese National Assembly that Dokdo is Japanese territory and her intention to inform the international community of this claim, constitutes a “blatant territorial provocation” that disregards historical facts and international law. Source

Kim Nam-guk emphasized that Dokdo is “clearly Korea’s inherent territory historically, geographically, and under international law,” and that no Japanese claims can alter this reality. He further stated that Dokdo is “neither an object of negotiation nor a subject of dispute.” Source

Takaichi’s Stance on International Awareness and Ministerial Attendance

According to Japanese media outlet Kyodo News, Prime Minister Takaichi stated at the Budget Committee of the House of Representatives on March 12, 2026, that it is “important to promote the awareness of Dokdo as Japanese territory to the international community.” Source

Regarding the annual ‘Takeshima Day’ event held by Shimane Prefecture, Takaichi indicated her government would “create an environment to make it happen someday” regarding ministerial attendance. Source This follows previous statements made during the Liberal Democratic Party presidential election, where Takaichi suggested it would be acceptable for ministers to attend the event. Source

Historical Context and Previous Actions

Japan officially claims sovereignty over Dokdo, referring to it as Takeshima, and administratively includes it under Shimane Prefecture. Since 2006, Shimane Prefecture has held “Takeshima Day” ceremonies annually, repeatedly requesting ministerial attendance. Though, the Japanese government has historically refrained from sending ministers to avoid straining Japan-Korea relations. Source

In February 2026, a political officer attended the Takeshima Day event, marking the first such attendance since Takaichi assumed office in October 2025. Source

Concerns Over Korea-Japan Relations

The Democratic Party of Korea expressed concern that Takaichi’s actions demonstrate “historical revisionism and territorial expansionist perception of Japan’s far-right political forces.” They also warned that using the Dokdo issue politically is detrimental to peace and cooperation in Northeast Asia. Source