TOKYO: Japan’s defense ministry has issued a stark warning in its annual white paper, stating that North Korea’s military activities now pose a more serious and immediate threat to Japan’s national security than ever before. The document, approved by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s cabinet on Friday morning, highlights the urgency of the situation as the world faces what the ministry terms “a new era of crisis.”
While the white paper primarily focused on China’s expanding military might and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it also raised concerns about North Korea’s actions. According to the report, there is a belief that North Korea possesses the capability to launch nuclear-armed ballistic missiles targeting Japan.
Recent actions by North Korea, such as the increased frequency of missile tests, have escalated tensions in the region. In addition, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as well as his country’s display of advanced weaponry during a visit from Russia’s defense minister, have added to Japan’s concerns.
Increasing Military Cooperation Between Japan, South Korea and US
To counter the growing nuclear threats from North Korea and the influence of China in the region, Japan, South Korea, and the United States have been increasing their military cooperation. The white paper specifically highlights China’s military activities as an “unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge” to Japan. It also expresses concerns about joint military drills between Russia and North Korea.
In response to these mounting concerns, Japan’s defense ministry has proposed a significant increase in domestic defense spending. Historically, Japan has limited military spending to around one percent of its GDP. However, in light of the current security landscape, Prime Minister Kishida’s government approved a plan last year to double defense spending to two percent of GDP by fiscal year 2027, amounting to approximately 11 trillion yen ($78.7 billion).
“The international community is facing its greatest trial since World War II, and we have entered a new era of crisis,” stated Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada in the white paper.
