Feb 10 • 09:16 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

Japan renounced war in its 1946 constitution — is that about to change?

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, led by ultraconservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, achieved a historic victory in the recent snap election, potentially paving the way for significant changes to the country's pacifist constitution.

In a significant political shift, Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), under the leadership of ultraconservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, secured a commanding victory in the recent snap election, achieving a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives. This historic win marks the first time since World War II that a single party has reached such a supermajority. With the LDP now holding 316 of the 465 seats, Takaichi's administration is positioned to introduce extensive changes to the political landscape, including a move to revise Japan's pacifist constitution, which has been in place since 1946.

During a press conference following the election, Takaichi expressed her commitment to pursuing hard-line conservative policies, indicating that constitutional revision is a priority for her government. This shift could significantly alter Japan's military stance, moving away from the pacifism that has defined its post-war era. Growing concerns about regional security dynamics, particularly in light of tensions with North Korea and issues involving China, have intensified debates surrounding the necessity of changing defense policies and constitutional interpretations.

The implications of these changes stretch beyond Japan, potentially affecting the geopolitical landscape of Northeast Asia. A move towards a revamped constitution and expanded military capabilities could influence Japan's relations with neighboring countries like South Korea and China, raising apprehensions about a resurgence of militarism in the region. As Japan embarks on this politically transformative journey, the ramifications for peace and security in Northeast Asia will be closely monitored both regionally and internationally.

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