Japan to raise 'Rising Sun' flag during upcoming exercises near South Korea: Report

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Tokyo announced that a Japanese naval vessel will hoist the "Rising Sun" flag during next week's exercises near South Korea, local media reported on Friday.

Japan's Ministry of Defense and Maritime Self-Defense Force announced the decision to dispatch a destroyer to join multinational drills in the waters adjacent to Jeju Island next Wednesday.

"The flag will be hoisted in accordance with domestic laws and regulations" stated Defense Minister Hamada Yasukazu during a press briefing in Tokyo, as reported by local news agency Kyodo. The regulations require vessels to display the flag as their official ensign.

The decision comes amidst the improving relations between Japan and South Korea. The flag has long been a contentious issue between the two nations, with Seoul arguing that it is associated with the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy during World War II.

South Korea has announced that the US, Australia, and Canada are also expected to participate in the drill, aimed at enhancing capabilities to counter the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.