Seoul, August 28 – The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) is set to stage an international fleet review in Busan next year, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of its founding and the country’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule. The event, scheduled for May, could see the participation of Japanese naval vessels, potentially flying the controversial Rising Sun flag, a symbol of Japan’s militaristic past.
According to military sources on August 28, the 2024 defense budget includes funds for the international fleet review, amounting to around 40 billion Korean won (approximately US$214 million). This marks the first such event since 2018, with the navy expecting to invite allies and defense partners for the grand spectacle.
Naval officials have indicated that discussions are ongoing regarding the list of invitees, with countries like the United States, Japan, Australia, China, Canada, the United Kingdom, India, Indonesia, and Singapore potentially participating. Notably, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) may also join the fleet review. Historically, South Korea has invited the JMSDF to these events, although Japan chose not to attend in 2018 during the Moon Jae-in administration.
The reason for Japan’s absence in 2018 was rooted in the South Korean government’s request, at the time, for the JMSDF not to display the Rising Sun flag during the海上检阅, the highlight of the fleet review. The flag, which is seen by many as a reminder of Japan’s aggression in Asia during World War II, is highly contentious in South Korea and other neighboring countries. Despite the diplomatic efforts to discourage its use, Japan did not comply, leading to its decision not to participate.
The potential presence of the JMSDF, possibly flying the Rising Sun flag, could reignite tensions in South Korea. The current尹锡悦 administration has shown a stronger emphasis on trilateral cooperation with the United States and Japan, as well as bilateral security cooperation with Japan. This may influence the South Korean government’s stance on allowing the flag to be displayed, even if it sparks controversy domestically.
The fleet review, which is expected to be a grand spectacle, will also be part of the Busan International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition, highlighting the importance of defense cooperation and regional security partnerships. The event is anticipated to attract significant attention, given the complex history and ongoing disputes between South Korea and Japan.
As South Korea navigates its diplomatic waters, the decision on the flag issue will be closely watched by the international community. The event could either serve as a platform for fostering cooperation and healing historical wounds or become a source of renewed tension in the region.
In the meantime, the South Korean government will likely weigh the potential consequences of allowing the Rising Sun flag, considering public sentiment, diplomatic relations, and the strategic importance of cooperation with Japan and other participating nations. The outcome of these deliberations will be a critical factor in shaping the atmosphere of the 2024 Busan International Fleet Review.
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【source】https://cn.yna.co.kr/view/ACK20240828000300881?section=politics/index&input=rss
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