The Struggle for Possession of the Symbolic Islands: The Dynamic Interaction of Nationalism and Power Politics in East Asia

Abstract

The paper seeks to explain the reasons and motivation behind the ongoing maritime territorial disputes in East Asia, focusing on Dokdo/Takeshima as well as Senkaku/Diayou. First, it lays out the background of the region’s emotion-filled politics by utilizing the symbolic politics framework. Next, the paper shows that the main reason for Tokyo’s aggressive and headstrong response to the territorial dispute is Japan’s perception of its status in the region declining precipitously. Strong and antagonistic nationalism in China is another concern. The changing balance of power in the region due to the rapid rise of China makes the situation more complicated. Thus, interwoven challenges of history and politics and complex dynamics of identity and interests make the establishment of a peaceful region extremely difficult. I conclude the paper by providing some policy options for Seoul including its imperative need to improve the operational capability of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy and Air Force.