Matsue, Japan – Japan’s annual commemoration of its claim over the Dokdo islands, known as Takeshima in Japan, sparked a swift and strong protest from South Korea on Friday, February 22, 2026. The event, held in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, saw the participation of a senior government official, despite repeated objections from Seoul, which maintains effective control over the islands and considers them an integral part of its territory.
The South Korean Foreign Ministry issued a statement condemning the event, asserting that Dokdo is historically, geographically, and internationally recognized as South Korean territory. The ministry called for an immediate cessation of what it termed “unjust territorial claims” and urged Japan to approach history with humility. Further escalating the diplomatic tension, the ministry announced it had summoned Hirotaka Matsuo, the Japanese ambassador to South Korea, to lodge a formal protest. According to the Korea Daily, Matsuo remained silent when questioned by reporters regarding the basis of Japan’s claim and the potential impact on bilateral relations.
Japan Reaffirms Takeshima Claim with High-Level Representation
This year’s event marked the 13th consecutive year Japan has sent a vice-ministerial level official to the Takeshima Day ceremony, demonstrating a continued commitment to asserting its sovereignty over the islands. Naoki Furukawa, a parliamentary vice-minister from the Cabinet Office, attended the ceremony in Shimane Prefecture. The Korea Daily reported that Sanae Takaichi, the current Liberal Democratic Party president, had previously expressed strong views on the issue during her campaign for party leadership in September 2025.
The “Takeshima Day” commemoration is held annually on February 22nd, marking the date in 1905 when Japan formally incorporated the islands into its territory. South Korea, although, views this act as illegitimate, arguing that it occurred during a period of Japanese expansionism and without legitimate legal basis. The islands have been a persistent source of friction between the two nations, hindering broader diplomatic and economic cooperation.
Historical Context and Ongoing Dispute
The dispute over Dokdo/Takeshima dates back to the early 20th century. While Japan asserts its claim based on historical records and its 1905 incorporation, South Korea maintains that the islands have been an inherent part of its territory for centuries, citing historical maps and documents. South Korea currently maintains a small police detachment on the islands, effectively controlling them. According to Namu Wiki, Shimane Prefecture is particularly known to Koreans as the location from which Japan initially asserted its claim to the islands.
The islands themselves are a small group of islets located in the Sea of Japan (East Sea), approximately 217 kilometers (135 miles) from the Korean Peninsula and 211 kilometers (131 miles) from the Japanese mainland. They are strategically important for fishing rights and potential maritime resources. The dispute extends beyond territorial claims to encompass issues of historical memory and national identity for both countries.
South Korea’s Response and Diplomatic Efforts
The South Korean government’s response to the Takeshima Day event was firm and unequivocal. Beyond summoning the Japanese ambassador, the Foreign Ministry reiterated its position that any unilateral attempt by Japan to assert sovereignty over Dokdo is unacceptable. Seoul has consistently called for Japan to abandon its claims and engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issue peacefully.
The incident comes at a sensitive time in bilateral relations, as both countries are navigating complex geopolitical challenges in the region. While economic ties remain significant, political and security cooperation have been hampered by historical grievances and ongoing disputes, including the Dokdo/Takeshima issue. The South Korean government has emphasized the importance of mutual respect and adherence to international law in resolving the dispute.
Impact on Regional Relations and Future Prospects
The annual recurrence of the Takeshima Day event and South Korea’s corresponding protests underscore the deeply entrenched nature of the dispute. The incident is likely to further strain relations between the two countries, potentially impacting broader regional cooperation on issues such as security, trade, and environmental protection.
Analysts suggest that a breakthrough in the dispute requires a fundamental shift in approach from both sides. South Korea seeks a formal retraction of Japan’s claim and an acknowledgment of South Korea’s sovereignty, while Japan maintains its position that the issue should be resolved through international legal mechanisms. The Hankyung reports that the event took place in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, with the attendance of Vice-Minister Furukawa.
The ongoing dispute over Dokdo/Takeshima serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of historical tensions in East Asia. Finding a mutually acceptable solution will require sustained diplomatic efforts, a willingness to compromise, and a commitment to building trust between the two nations. The next significant development is anticipated to be a response from the Japanese government to the South Korean protest, expected within the coming days.
Key Takeaways:
- Japan held its annual “Takeshima Day” event on February 22, 2026, reaffirming its claim to the Dokdo islands.
- South Korea strongly protested the event, summoning the Japanese ambassador and reiterating its sovereignty over the islands.
- The dispute over Dokdo/Takeshima remains a significant obstacle to improved relations between South Korea and Japan.
- The event highlights the enduring impact of historical grievances and territorial disputes in East Asia.
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