Dokdo and anti-Japanese sentiments

Maria Siow The Korea Herald Asia News Network Seoul

President Roh Moo-hyun may have been criticized in Korea for writing an open letter pledging stern action against attempts by Japan in distorting wartime history. But to many in neighboring China, the Korean president might well have been a hero.

In the open letter, Roh said his government had no choice but to deal with Japan's attempts to justify its history of aggression and colonialism. He noted that Tokyo's various moves -- including territorial claims to Dokto, distortion of history textbooks, and visits by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to the Yasukuni Shrine -- had nullified all self-reflections and apologies offered by Japan in the past.

While the open letter may have won him some points among ordinary Koreans, Roh was taken to task by many in the establishment for not consulting his administration before issuing the letter.

Critics argued that instead of the president himself, other lower-level officials could have made similar remarks. Others expressed concerns that Roh's strident comments would make it difficult for Seoul to maneuver its future foreign policy options.

But over in China, Roh's bold move won him admiration, adulation, and even veneration.

Many in China hailed his comments as courageous, noting he had the guts to stand up for the interests of his country and his people.

Many Chinese are also wondering why their own leaders do not have similar courage in taking a stronger stand against Japan.

Indeed, the indomitable pride and patriotism displayed by Koreans has won the respect of many in China.

On various Web sites across China, many noted that as compared to the patriotism shown by the Koreans, the Chinese people ought to feel ashamed.

One typical comment on a Chinese Web site pointed out that "as compared to the heroic Koreans, we Chinese are no better than cowards." Some point out that if the Chinese had just a quarter of the pride and dignity that Koreans have in their own country, China would not have to suffer almost a century of aggression and humiliation.

Others noted that even though Korea is no bigger than a province in China, its people display pride and courage in upholding their national dignity and identity.

A Chinese observer noted that "Korea has achieved an influence and respect among the international community that is incomparable to its size. And the source of this influence is the combined effort of the entire Korean people, many of whom had little qualms about shedding blood or even laying down their lives for their country."

To the Chinese, it is unthinkable for them to do what the Koreans have -- massive demonstrations on the streets, burning the Japanese flag, cutting off their fingers, or self-immolation.

While many say the dramatic moves stem from the country's past history of invasion, separation and occupation and hence its insecurities, many also paid tribute to Koreans for their tenacity and their fierce adherence to national identity.

In the words of a Chinese netizen, "We should see Korea as a mirror and learn from the nationalistic spirit of Koreans."

But there are many who beg to differ.

Some described the outburst of emotions in Korea as futile in resolving the standoff with Japan, adding that self-mutilation and self-immolation are unheard of in stable democracies.

Others pointed out that despite the outbursts by the Korean people, there is not much that the Japanese government can do.

Indeed, many predicted that Tokyo is likely to "resolve" the Dokto issue through inaction, and to let time heal all wounds, so to speak. And if so, they wondered, wouldn't the efforts of the Korean people have been in vain?

No matter what the Chinese may have to say, what is clear is that given the same historical perspective shared by both China and Korea towards Japan, the recent turn of events is likely to bring China and Korea together against Japan.

Especially since China also has its own territorial disputes with Japan, over the Diaoyu islands, or the Senkakus, and both Korea and China intend to prevent Japan from becoming a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

The writer, a student at Yonsei University's Graduate School of International Studies, was a journalist in Beijing and Hong Kong for several years.