Hostage to History: Japan-South Korea Relations

With the two leaders of Japan and South Korea having failed to hold an official meeting between them since coming to office, historical issues remain a thorn in the the betterment of Japanese-South Korean relations. There continue to be anti-Korean ultra-nationalist protests in Japan while lingering grievances remain in South Korea. Gestures of goodwill as well as statesmanship are needed on both sides to lessen tensions and put their historical issues behind them.