Japan Calls It a “De-facto Notice of Severing Relations” and Vows for a “Strict Response”

The Japanese society is expressing extreme resentment towards North Korea’s incessant claim for “complete fabrication” against Japan’s examination results that the Japanese repatriated abductee Megumi Yokota’s remains are fake.

The Japanese political circle is increasingly calling for economic sanctions against the North, and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party has decided to present the North Korea Human Rights Act to the Diet as part of its move to place pressure on the North.

On the other hand, Pyongyang delivered a memorandum to Tokyo through its embassy in Beijing, China, saying, “The test result that says the remains are not genuine is totally fabricated,” and demanded fact-finding and discipline of those responsible. The Japanese government that had expected a more regretful response bluntly expressed its unhappiness and announced consideration of sanctions against the North.

“North Korea’s response is very insincere,” Japan’s Foreign Minister Nobutaka Machimura said and added, “The Japanese government has no choice but to consider strict and detailed measures.” “Pyongyang’s delivery of the memorandum is a de-facto notice to sever relations. The Koizumi administration, which has been passive in restricting the North, mindful of the six-party talks, is mired in a difficult situation,” reported the Nihon Keizai Shimbun.

Won-Jae Park parkwj@donga.com