The Mobilisation of Memory: History Problems in Japan-South Korea Relations (Provisional)

My proposed doctoral research will examine relations between Japan and South Korea. For many decades, International Relations (IR) scholars have been greatly puzzled by this relationship due to the fact that, even though the two countries have vastly similar regional interests and share a fundamental ally in the United States, there is little to no cooperation - particularly security cooperation - between them. In fact, Japan-South Korea relations are characterised by repeated spats and quarrels.

This animosity principally relates to the so-called 'history problem' - that is, disagreements regarding Japan's wartime and colonial conduct and, in particular, the extent to which (further) apologies, restitution and changes in behaviour are required from Tokyo. It is often peaked by a Japanese action perceived by South Korea as insensitive to the relevant history, or, conversely, a Korean action relating to this history deemed provocative or inflammatory by Japan.