4-16 Asia's next revolution

http://www.economist.com/printedition/2012-09-08

ESG Season4 16th meeting

DATE: 16th Sep. 2012 10:00-12:00
PLACE: Kanda, Tokyo
MEMBERS: Ogawa, Iino, Murakami,  Mizutani, Fujita 

Strained relations between Japan and South Korea

Lame ducks and flying feathers

Domestic political upheaval in both countries makes a damaging row worse

From Asia

Why I choose the topic:

We discussed on this issue two weeks ago based on a neutral or pro-Korea article. This weeks the Economist’s point of view looks clearly on Japan’s side for me. So again I want to know what they want to say. We also have territorial issue between China, which is now inflamed.  These territorial issues are watched by the world with interest. It is better for us to get our ideas in shape with cool heads.

Discussion topics:

Why do you think Mr. Lee visit the islet at this time? (Again)

Do you think the Economist argument is correct? Why do you think so?

We have the same issue between China. Why Mr. Noda did nationalize the islands at this time? 

What the Economist discusses:

The Economist first mentions South Korea’s patterns for how presidents treat Japan.

1~3 year; friendly focusing on future

4~5 year; rudely (←Now Lee Myung-bak / an unexpected visit islet / remarks on the Emperor Akihito)

Then they analyze why he is so proactive explaining Korean presidents’ last days. They point out he looks like “a lame duck” and in Korea “ex presidents’ families and friends are often hounded by their enemies” so he is now defense himself.

Next, they are balancing their opinion by mentioning Mr. Noda and DPJ’s political difficulties. However the main focus of this article is still on the analysis of Mr. Lee’s provocative attitude. They think why Mr. Lee ignores numerous past apologies and has broken diplomatic taboo is because he is confronting internal pressure on “comfort women” but was unable to persuade Mr. Noda’s administration to offer compensation to these women.

As a result, they point out anti Korean sentiment in Japan is inflamed and deteriorating relations have already had material consequences in Intelligence sharing / military exchanges / a currency swap agreement / Korean star visit. Lastly they conclude the overcome will not happen before Mr. Lee leaves office. By then, Mr. Noda may be gone too.

Other discussions

International trade: Boxed in from Finance and Economics (Iino)
Gender politics: Female muscle from Books and arts (Mizutani)