“Sea of Japan” or “East Sea” ? (1)

The sudden objection to the name “Sea of Japan” was first raised by South and North Korea in 1992. Prior to this, there was no objection by these countries.

South Korea asserts that the name Sea of Japan became widespread as a result of Japanese “expansionism and colonial rule” in the latter half of the 19^th century; however, this is incorrect since the name “Sea of Japan” was already prevalent in the early 19^th century (the Edo Period) when Japan had an isolationist policy (i.e. no interaction with other countries). Western countries had already used the word “Sea of Japan” at that time, and for example, the British map in 1840 clearly indicated “Sea of Japan”.

South Korea also asserts that “For the past 2000 years, the name “East Sea” has been used in the Korean Peninsula”, but without providing evidence. Both the UN and the United States formally recognize the name “Sea of Japan”.

More info:

·        A Study of Naming Issue of Japan Sea, by Yoshitaka Shindo, Member of the House of Representatives, can be downloaded from here

·        Japan’s official stance on Sea of Japan, by Ministry of Foreign Affairs is here