North Korea called on Japan Monday to confront its past as Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba prepares a new war anniversary message. Specifically, Ishiba may issue a statement marking 80 years since Japan’s defeat in World War II. However, reports suggest it will resemble the 2015 statement by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Notably, that statement expressed regret but offered no new apology. As of now, Tokyo has yet to confirm any official message.
Back in 2015, Abe acknowledged previous apologies but urged future generations to stop apologizing repeatedly. He claimed that Japan had already expressed sufficient remorse for its past actions. Nevertheless, critics argue that the statement fell short of meaningful accountability. As expected, North Korea, among others, strongly disagreed with this position. Now, as the 80th anniversary approaches, tensions are resurfacing.
In response, North Korea’s foreign ministry reacted sharply through its Institute for Japan Studies. Specifically, the ministry condemned Japan’s reluctance to confront its past seriously. According to state-run media, the Korean Central News Agency, the ministry described Japan’s attitude as shameful. Moreover, officials in Pyongyang believe Japan’s approach insults victims of its colonial and wartime aggression.
Furthermore, a ministry director stated that Japan continues to mock the pain of those it once oppressed. In addition, he accused Tokyo of ignoring its moral and legal responsibility. The official stressed that no statute of limitations exists for war crimes. Even after decades, he said, justice remains essential. Ultimately, North Korea insists that Japan must confront its past without delay.
Moreover, North Korea emphasized the regional importance of historical accountability. In particular, the statement highlighted the suffering endured not only by Koreans but also other Asian nations. Pyongyang claimed that failing to acknowledge past crimes undermines peace in the region. Consequently, officials said Japan must recognize the damage caused by imperialist rule. They called for genuine reflection and reparative action.
As history has shown, tensions between Tokyo and Pyongyang often spike on anniversaries tied to Japan’s colonial history. Clearly, these events remind both nations of unresolved historical wounds. Though Japan maintains formal apologies, its critics see them as inadequate. Consistently, North Korea uses these moments to push for more honest engagement. Therefore, the demand to confront its past remains central to Pyongyang’s position.
Looking ahead, as Ishiba considers his anniversary message, pressure continues to build. Observers expect regional reactions to influence his decision. On one hand, some believe avoiding a fresh apology will worsen diplomatic ties. On the other hand, others think Japan may avoid controversy to maintain domestic political balance. Either way, calls to confront its past are growing louder.
