Published：Feb 19, 16:00Last updated：Feb 22, 08:02

Renewed Dokdo/Takeshima Dispute Sparks Korea-Japan Diplomatic Tensions

Feb. 19, 2026 16:00

On February 20, South Korea's Foreign Ministry issued a strong protest against Japan's Foreign Minister Mogi Toshimitsu's claim that Dokdo (Takeshima) belongs to Japan, demanding Japan withdraw the statement. The ministry reaffirmed that Dokdo is Korea's inherent territory, criticizing Japan's repeated claims as unhelpful for future relations. The dispute involves territorial sovereignty, with Korea controlling the island and Japan asserting its claim. Diplomatic protests and meetings, including a visit by Korea's Asia-Pacific director to Japan's ambassador, highlight ongoing tensions.

Summarized

13News

8Media

Feb. 22, 2026 07:58

South Korea's foreign ministry issued a statement condemning Japan's 'Takeshima Day' event and reiterated that Dokdo (Takeshima) is Korea's inherent territory. Seoul called for Japan to cease its claims and respect history. The ministry also summoned the Japanese ambassador to express protest. Both countries claim sovereignty over the small islet, which Korea currently controls.

Feb. 22, 2026 08:02

On February 22, South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong protest against Japan's 'Takeshima Day' event held in Shimane Prefecture, asserting that Dokdo (Takeshima) is Korea's inherent territory based on history and international law. The ministry summoned the Japanese ambassador to express disapproval, demanding Japan cease such claims. Japan claims sovereignty based on historical and legal grounds, but Korea maintains control over the islets, which are a point of territorial dispute.

A fresh wave of diplomatic friction has erupted between South Korea and Japan over the sovereignty of the disputed islets known as Dokdo in Korea and Takeshima in Japan. The controversy intensified after high-profile statements and commemorative events in Japan, prompting a series of strong protests and official condemnations from Seoul. The dispute, which also involves a claim by North Korea, remains a persistent flashpoint in bilateral relations, underscoring deep-rooted historical and territorial disagreements. China.org+2

🇰🇷 South Korea's Firm Response

The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued multiple statements reaffirming that Dokdo is Korea's inherent territory, citing historical, geographical, and legal evidence. Seoul demanded the immediate withdrawal of Japan's claims and condemned events such as the annual "Takeshima Day" in Shimane Prefecture. High-level diplomatic actions included summoning the Japanese ambassador and direct protests by Korean officials, emphasizing that Japan's repeated assertions are detrimental to future relations. China.org+2

🇯🇵 Japan's Renewed Claims and Events

Japan, led by Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, has reiterated its claim to the islets, with official statements and policy documents. The "Takeshima Day" event, attended by senior officials in Shimane Prefecture, marked a symbolic reaffirmation of Japan's stance. Japanese conservative media further fueled the dispute by labeling Korea's control as "illegal occupation" for over 70 years, coinciding with the commemorative activities. Chosun Ilbo+2

⚖️ Ongoing Diplomatic and Legal Standoff

The sovereignty dispute over Dokdo/Takeshima remains unresolved, with both sides invoking historical records and international law to justify their positions. South Korea currently maintains administrative control over the islets, while Japan continues to assert its claim through diplomatic channels and public events. The issue periodically escalates tensions, affecting broader bilateral cooperation and regional stability in Northeast Asia. Yonhap News Agency+2

North KoreaDokdo (Takeshima)Shimane PrefectureSouth Korean Ministry of Foreign AffairsJapanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi