A Raindrop in a Raging Fire? Soft Power as a Tool for Japan-South Korea Reconciliation

Abstract

Japan and South Korea have experienced rising tensions for generations. Beginning with the Japanese annexation of Korea in 1910, contemporary relations are shaped by mutual mistrust. Nevertheless, both countries face common security threats, namely North Korean and China; and both are pushed by the United States to cooperate on an international level. It is increasingly important for Japan and South Korea to take steps toward reconciliation. Analyzing the significant barriers to rapprochement, this article explores soft power as a potential method for improving relations between the two countries.