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Tokyo Report
The Japan-South Korea Thaw Is Far From a Done Deal
By Jio Kamata
Japan's Kishida and South Korea's Yoon are ready to mend relations, but both leaders face problems back home.
Fukushima 12 Years After the Nuclear Accident
By Thisanka Siripala
While radiation levels return to normal in towns around the accident epicenter, revitalization is weighed down by accumulating piles of contaminated soil.
Japan Launches H3 Rocket, Destroys It Over 2nd-Stage Failure
By Mari Yamaguchi
The failure of Japan’s new rocket series, already long delayed, was a setback for the country’s space program.
Japan Welcomes South Korean Deal to End Colonial Era Forced Labor Dispute
By Thisanka Siripala
The long unresolved forced labor dispute nears closure, with South Korea deciding to shoulder victim compensation through donations.
Where Next for ASEAN-Japan Relations in a Changing Indo-Pacific?
By Prashanth Parameswaran
Both sides confront a challenging strategic context as they look to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations.
Japan’s Politics Is Flooded With ‘Nepo Babies’
By Takahashi Kosuke
Japan has an unusually high percentage of lawmakers who come from political dynasties – and it shows.
The Invasion of Ukraine Turned Japan’s Russia Policy on Its Head
By Jio Kamata
From attempts at flattery and concerted diplomacy in 2014, Tokyo has pivoted to sanctions in lockstep with the rest of the G-7.
Japan Suspects Chinese Spy Balloons Violated Its Airspace
By Thisanka Siripala
Japan is debating the appropriate response to tackle such surveillance following the U.S. shootdown of a balloon from China.
Will Japan Succeed in Its ‘Global South’ Diplomacy?
By Kei Hakata
A shift to values-based diplomacy must not jeopardize Japan’s long history of close engagement with the developing world.
Japan’s Prime Minister Battles Fallout After Anti-LGBTQ Gaffe
By Thisanka Siripala
The Japanese government’s handling of homophobic comments by a top aide is under intense scrutiny as it seeks to revive a formally shelved LGBTQ bill.
Japan Downgrades COVID-19 Threat Despite Spike in Deaths
By Thisanka Siripala
The government lowered the legal status of COVID-19 even as it grapples with a deadly outbreak.
Japan, China Hold Foreign Minister Call Days After NATO Chief’s Visit
By Mina Pollmann
Tokyo continues to try to keep relations with Beijing stable even as it deepens military cooperation with NATO and other partners.