Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Koizumi visited the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo on Thursday (August 15), coinciding with the anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II, as reported by Kyodo News.
The Yasukuni Shrine honors approximately 2.5 million war dead from conflicts dating back to the 19th century, including 14 Class-A war criminals convicted after World War II. Visits by senior Japanese officials to the shrine typically draw strong protests from China, South Korea, and other Asian nations that were invaded and occupied by Japan.
Koizumi's visit comes as the Japanese government seeks to balance relations with Western allies while soothing regional neighbors. No official comments have yet been issued by the Chinese or South Korean governments regarding the matter.
This marks the first time during his tenure that Defense Minister Koizumi has visited Yasukuni Shrine on August 15, the date marking the end of World War II. Previously, he had expressed respect for those who sacrificed their lives in the war but refrained from commenting on the associated controversies.
According to Kyodo News, the visit lasted approximately 20 minutes, during which Koizumi performed traditional rituals before departing.
