One of the primary sources of political conflict between China, Japan, and South Korea includes historical grievances, particularly related to Japan's actions during World War II. Key issues include:
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Historical memory: Disputes over how Japan has acknowledged and apologized for its wartime actions, including the treatment of "comfort women" (women forced into sexual slavery) and forced labor during the occupation of China and Korea.
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Territorial disputes: There are ongoing territorial claims among the three countries, notably:
- The Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands, claimed by both Japan and China.
- The Liancourt Rocks (Dokdo/Takeshima), claimed by both South Korea and Japan.
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Nationalism: Rising nationalism in all three countries can exacerbate tensions, as historical grievances are often invoked in political rhetoric.
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Regional security: Military tensions and alliances, especially regarding North Korea's nuclear program, also create a complex backdrop of competition and concern, often involving the United States as an ally of Japan and South Korea.
These issues create a challenging backdrop for diplomatic relations and collaboration in the region.