Historical Issues and Peace Building: Japan, China and the two Koreas

Different people tell different versions of the same history, sometimes because they disagree on the facts, and sometimes because they disagree on how to interpret them. People have different perspectives, and their versions of history may be driven by conflicting interests in the present. But although history may be contested, we have a responsibility to build peace with our neighbours, for the benefit of both present and future generations.

Japan, China and the two Koreas have struggled to understand each other’s different perspectives on historical issues, and this has been preventing constructive diplomatic dialogue between them. On hearing that Moon Jae-in had been elected as the new President of South Korea, some Japanese politicians expressed pessimism about the future of the Japan-ROK relationship, because Mr Moon had pledged in his electoral campaign to abandon the 2015 agreement by Foreign Ministers Fumio Kishida and Yun Byung-se over WWII’s so-called ‘Comfort Women’. This historical issue has long created difficulties between the two countries. Meanwhile China has been creating tensions with several of its neighbours by challenging their sovereignty over various islands. Historical issues are involved here too.

In this seminar, the speakers will talk about the difficulties of handling historical issues affecting the region, which seem to have increased over the last decade. They will discuss what can be done to build peace in North East Asia for future generations.

Please arrive at 6pm to clear security at the Houses of Parliament.

This event is free but booking is essential. Places can be booked at: http://www.dajf.org.uk/seminars/japan-and-the-uk-a-focus-on-history/historical-issues-and-peace-building-japan-china-and-the-two-koreas