Japan remains calm as South Korea lifts martial law
Riots in South Korea related to the imposition of martial law are attracting global media attention. But how are the Japanese, a few hundred kilometres from Korea, reacting to this situation? Being in the Land of the Rising Sun, I asked the residents of Kyoto about their perspectives.
Recent hours have seen an unsettled situation in a traditionally stable country—South Korea. The local president, Yoon Suk Yeol, decided to impose martial law to reinforce his position. However, the National Assembly reacted decisively, lifting martial law.
This is how the Japanese are reacting to the situation in South Korea
Although only a brief period elapsed between the imposition and lifting of martial law – lasting just hours – South Korea became the focus of global media attention. It is no different in Japan, where I am currently residing. Consequently, I decided to ask the residents about their thoughts on the situation in a country just a few hundred kilometres away.
No sign of unrest in Kyoto
The Japanese are viewing events in South Korea with significant calm. When asked about their feelings, the most common responses I hear indicate that residents are unperturbed. – We don't feel uneasy here in Japan – one Kyoto resident tells me. – It's safe here – another agrees and adds that the government is maintaining vigilant oversight. This is consistent with what I read in local media. "Japan Today" reports that Japanese authorities informed the public after martial law was declared in South Korea, stating they "will make every effort to ensure the safety of Japanese people in Korea." Consequently, the Japanese do not feel that the events in Korea will affect their country.
Others share similar views, not expressing concerns about national safety. Some note that "Japan's relations with South Korea have been positive for several years."
Japanese feel safe
Among the residents of Kyoto, there is little evidence of concern regarding the events in Korea. – We feel safe here – say more people who hear about the lifting of martial law in Korea. My interviewees also assert that they have not observed any panic or fear in their surroundings following the riots in Seoul.
Japanese television stations continue to cover events in South Korea. However, there are no alarming messages for residents here on TV. Life in Kyoto proceeds as usual – I couldn't detect any disruption among the residents following the imposition or lifting of martial law. The Japanese carry on normally and do not gaze anxiously towards their neighbour across the Sea of Japan.
