Tokto and Takeshima free essay sample

An examination of the conflicts over ownership of the two islands between Korea and Japan. This paper takes a look at the islands of Tokto and Takeshima that belong to Korea and Japan respectively. The author examines the controversies that have existed between the two countries over the islands for so many years and the reasons for the conflict over possession of the islands with emphasis on the symbolic meaning that these islands hold. Tokto, Takeshima, Liancourt Rocks, Dokdo, or Toki Islands the rocky islets that lie between Korean and Japan are known as different names to different people. Tokto belongs to Korea, while Takeshima belongs to Japan. The islands have been a source of controversy between the two neighboring countries since the 17th century, as both nations bickered back and forth, each claiming their rightful sovereignty over them. Both Korea and Japan offer their own version of historical documentation as evidence to support their claims. We will write a custom essay sample on Tokto and Takeshima or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The rocky islets themselves have little to offer; however the waters around the islands are very rich in fish and mineral resources. The possession of the islands have great implications in each nations exclusive economic maritime boundary definitions, and perhaps more importantly, are symbolic of Japan and Koreas nationalism, pride and underlying antagonism towards each other. The issue is in effect a microcosm of the complex Japan-Korea relations, shaped by centuries of interactions and conflicts, and reveals each countrys attitude towards each other, the tension and mistrust between them, and their struggling efforts to heal and strengthen the relationships and deal with and move forward from the past.