Japan Marks 80th WWII Anniversary Amid Shrine Controversy

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Above: People pay respects to the country's war dead at the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo on Aug. 15, 2025. Image copyright: David Mareuil/Anadolu/Getty Images

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The Spin

Pro-government narrative

Ishiba's use of "remorse" after a decade shows a genuine commitment to acknowledging Japan's wartime history. His pledge to pass war memories to younger generations demonstrates responsible leadership in ensuring historical lessons aren't forgotten.

The Times Korea JoongAng Daily

Government-critical narrative

Cabinet ministers visiting Yasukuni severely undermines any diplomatic progress from Ishiba's words of remorse. The shrine openly glorifies convicted war criminals and represents Japan's continued failure to honestly confront its aggressive wartime past, further damaging already fragile regional trust.

Yonhap News Agency The Straits Times