South Korean Foreign Ministry Monday urged Japan to commit
itself to make efforts to forge forward-looking amicable
Seoul-Tokyo bilateral relations based on true reflection on the
past and practical effort.
"The Japanese government should double its efforts to let the
apologies and self-reflection made by Japanese leaders in the past
can be accepted by neighboring countries," said Lee Kyu-hyung,
spokesperson of the South Korean Foreign Ministry.
The remarks came after Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi
made a statement, marking the 60th anniversary of Japan's surrender
in World War II, earlier Monday.
However, "Despite Japan's official apology and remorse, Japanese
political leaders continued rhetoric and actions called into
question whether they are truly repentant, which in turn caused
huge pain and resentment to the people of neighboring countries
that fell victim to Japan's colonial aggression," Lee said.
Lee said his government urged Japan to understand profoundly the
meaning of the 60th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War
II.
Koizumi admitted earlier in the day Japan has caused tremendous
damage and pain to the people in many countries, especially to
those of its Asian neighbors, through colonial rule and
aggression.
"We humbly accept the historic facts and express once again our
deep remorse and heartfelt apology," said Koizumi.
Japan conducted colonial rule over the Korean Peninsula during
1910-1945. August 15 is the Independence Day in South Korea.
Monday morning, South Korean government held a ceremony to
commemorate the 60th anniversary of the liberation from the
Japanese colonial rule. Moreover, a lot of culture and sports
events were being held across South Korea to celebrate the
festival.
(Xinhua News Agency August 16, 2005)