Contrasting Japanese Views on 'Ruling and Opposition Presidential Candidates'... "Tough on Japan VS Neighbor Definition"

Presidential candidates Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party of Korea and Yoon Seok-youl of the People Power Party (from left). / Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] After former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol was selected as the People Power Party's presidential candidate, Japanese media compared and analyzed the attitudes of candidates from both ruling and opposition parties toward Japan.

On the 5th, Japan's Kyodo News reported that Candidate Yoon "maintains a 'firm stance' on territorial and historical issues, while defining Japan as a 'neighbor sharing the values of liberal democracy and market economy.'"

It continued, "He advocates resolving issues such as forced labor, comfort women, security, economy, and trade through a 'grand bargain' (comprehensive settlement)."

In contrast, regarding Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party's presidential candidate, it evaluated that "he has a strong hardline image in his past critical remarks toward Japan."

It added, "Candidate Lee adopts a 'two-track strategy,' stating he will 'respond firmly' to territorial and historical issues while actively promoting exchange and cooperation, which is similar to the Moon Jae-in administration's basic diplomatic line toward Japan."

Meanwhile, another Japanese media outlet, NHK, focused on Candidate Yoon's background. NHK reported, "Yoon was highly praised by progressive President Moon Jae-in for his thorough investigation of former President Park Geun-hye's state affairs manipulation scandal, and was appointed Prosecutor General from the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office two years ago."

It further explained, "As a result of his actions, including probing allegations surrounding Cho Kuk, a close aide of President Moon and former Minister of Justice, which led to Cho's resignation, the confrontation with the administration deepened."

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