South Korean National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik expressed concern over Japan’s recent words and actions regarding history and territorial issues between South Korea and Japan, urging Japan to demonstrate sincere reflection and a responsible attitude.
Woo Won-shik stated in a social media post that Japan is speeding up constitutional revisions that would transform Japan into a "country capable of waging war," which is concerning. This behavior undermines the foundation of the East Asian peace order and can never be tolerated by South Korea or other neighboring countries. He emphasized that unless genuine efforts are made to resolve historical issues, all forms of cooperation will be nothing more than "castles in the air."
Woo pointed out that following recent public remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi claiming that Dokdo (called "Takeshima" by Japan) has always been Japanese territory in terms of history and international law, the Japanese government has recently expanded the "Territorial Sovereignty Exhibition Hall" that asserts sovereignty over Dokdo and other territories. "This is an attempt to implant false perceptions in students and the next generation. I express my strong regret over this and urge Japan to immediately close the facility."
Dokdo is located in the eastern waters off the Korean Peninsula and covers an area of about 0.18 square kilometers. South Korea, North Korea, and Japan all claim sovereignty over this island. Currently, South Korea has de facto control over it.