Japan Leaders Visit Yasukuni Shrine on Anniversary

On the 79th anniversary of Japan's World War II defeat, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida sent a ritual offering to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors war dead including 14 convicted war criminals. Kishida's action, along with visits by three cabinet ministers, has drawn criticism from South Korea, which expressed 'deep regret' over the offerings, viewing the shrine as a symbol of Japan's militaristic past. While Japanese officials emphasized the visits were private, the timing raised concerns amid recent discussions aimed at strengthening security ties between Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. Kishida, who has refrained from visiting the shrine in person during his tenure, announced he would not seek re-election as party leader following a scandal. The Yasukuni Shrine remains a contentious site, reflecting historical tensions in the region. Ministerial visits to the shrine have historically provoked backlash from China and South Korea, highlighting the ongoing sensitivities surrounding Japan's wartime history.