Japan Defence Minister Visits Controversial Yasukuni Shrine, Drawing China and South Korea Rebukes

TOKYO: Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visited Tokyo’s controversial Yasukuni Shrine on Saturday, prompting strong criticism from China and South Korea, which regard the site as a symbol of Japan’s wartime aggression.

Koizumi’s visit came on the 81st anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War Two. The shrine commemorates about 2.5 million Japanese war dead, including 14 wartime leaders convicted of Class-A war crimes by an Allied tribunal.

The visit is particularly sensitive because of Yasukuni’s role in historical disputes between Japan and its Asian neighbours. China and South Korea have repeatedly criticised visits by senior Japanese officials, saying they fail to appropriately acknowledge Japan’s wartime actions and complicate efforts to improve bilateral relations.

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi did not visit the shrine this year but sent a ritual offering. Her decision to stay away came as Tokyo seeks to maintain diplomatic ties with China and South Korea, while other Japanese ministers and ruling-party lawmakers visited the site.

Koizumi’s visit also carries significance because he serves as Japan’s defence minister at a time when the government is pursuing stronger defence capabilities. His appearance at the shrine is therefore likely to attract heightened attention from neighbouring countries concerned about Japan’s historical legacy and evolving security policies.

China and South Korea have urged Japan to reflect on its wartime history and demonstrate greater remorse, arguing that responsible handling of historical issues is essential for building mutual trust and stable relations in the region.