Japan’s Red Flag: North Korea Still the Big Bad
Japan’s latest Defence White Paper came out on Tuesday, and it sends a clear message: North Korea is still the biggest threat the country faces, even after the halt to missile tests and Kim Jong Un’s promises to get rid of nukes.
Key Takeaways
- North Korea’s military activity is the top priority in Japan’s security risk list.
- China’s growing military might and Russia’s power‑rebuilding ambitions add extra layers of uncertainty.
- The US has pulled back on talks; President Trump cancelled a high‑level visit by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, stalling the momentum from the Singapore summit.
- Prime Minister Shinzo Abe says Japan will keep its tough stance until North Korea makes real, verifiable moves to disarm.
Why Japan Keeps Its Eyes on the DPRK
Since the start of 2016, the north‑korean regime has performed three nuclear tests and launched 40 ballistic missiles. The last two have even passed over islands in Japan, like a reckless frisbee in a crowded park. That history means Japan is nervous about any sudden shift.
Defence Moves in the Pipeline
Last month, Japan announced plans to buy two Aegis Ashore air‑defence radar stations from the United States, paired with interceptor missile batteries. These upgrades can stand guard against a potential North Korean missile launch, but they’ll also be useful if China’s forces get even larger by 2023.
Abe’s Stance and the Urgent Call for Action
Since the Singapore summit, Abe has vowed not to soften Japan’s defence posture until concrete disarmament steps are taken. The Defence White Paper echoes this sentiment, urging a vigilant watch over North Korea’s actions.
Bottom Line
In a world where Japan sits amid powerful neighbours, the colour of North Korea’s security climate is still warning red. The government’s plan is to keep a strong defence band on and always stay alert for any real moves toward nuclear disarmament.
