Koizumi effect on neighbors

Korea has more at stake than a neighbor's curiosity in watching how Japan carries out reforms and revives its economy. Korea should not be alone either in expecting (Prime Minister Junichiro) Koizumi and his government to show the way to successful reforms and economic revitalization. Other Asians would also find lessons to learn. In politics, has he not already shown how to break away from tradition through his election as the party president and the cabinet appointments?

On the diplomatic front, however, Koizumi should not struggle too hard to challenge the taboo. Aside from a paucity of his experience in foreign relations, the "eccentric" politician with a rock star image must realize how he has irked many Asians by simply ignoring their uncomfortable feelings, while he displayed a remarkable chemistry with U.S. President George W. Bush. If speaking from the right wing was part of his campaign strategy, it is time Koizumi reviewed his perception of Japan's wartime past and the latest resurgence in nationalism.

Fortunately, it remains uncertain how many of those who voted for the LDP candidates actually support Koizumi's right-wing stance and his plan to visit the Yasukuni Shrine on Aug. 15. If the current history textbook choices by the local education boards may serve as a reliable guide, it can be safely said that the majority of Japanese citizens do not quite sympathize with radical nationalists.

Therefore, it would be wise for the reformist prime minister to scrap his plan to visit the Shinto shrine glorifying the Japanese militarism. He should listen to those who oppose his planned visit on the grounds that it would be against Japan's constitution and harmful to relations with other Asians. A politician of his stature should understand the implications of such a visit and pay heed to outcries from the neighboring nations that suffered under Japan's imperial aggression in the 20th century.

As Japan's new leader and enjoying unprecedented popular support, Koizumi would well be advised to consider how to improve relations with his Asian neighbors -- especially those with South Korea and China that have soured over the textbook dispute. Instead of provoking neighbors and adding insult to injury by turning a deaf ear to critical opinion, he must try to find ways to rectify the past wrongdoings and contribute to the greater cause of peace and common prosperity in the region.

-- The Korea Herald, Seoul