Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Visits South Korea, Lays Flowers at Grave of Lee Soo-hyun

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba recently visited South Korea and laid flowers at the grave of Lee Soo-hyun, a South Korean exchange student who tragically lost his life in 2001 while attempting to rescue a Japanese man who had fallen onto the tracks at Tokyo's Shin-Okubo Station. This marks the first time a sitting Japanese prime minister has visited Lee Soo-hyun's grave, and the act has garnered significant attention in both Japan and South Korea.

On January 26, 2001, a drunken man fell onto the tracks at Shin-Okubo Station. Lee Soo-hyun, attempting to rescue him, along with Shiro Sekine, a Japanese photographer who also rushed to help, were struck and killed by an approaching train. This tragedy evoked deep sorrow and emotion in the people of both nations, becoming a symbol of cross-border humanism.

Prime Minister Ishiba was welcomed by Lee Soo-hyun's mother, Shin Yoon-chan, and proceeded to lay flowers. Shin Yoon-chan has carried on her son's legacy, dedicating many years to activities that bridge Japan and South Korea. The Prime Minister's visit demonstrated deep respect for the deceased's courageous act, expressed support for Shin Yoon-chan's ongoing efforts, and sent a strong message toward building future-oriented Japan-South Korea relations.

The news spread widely on social media, with many users praising Prime Minister Ishiba's actions. Numerous positive comments were posted, such as "I offer my renewed respect and gratitude for Lee Soo-hyun's courage and dedication, and for his mother's activities" and "It's said to be the first time a sitting Japanese prime minister has visited the grave. PM Ishiba, good job!" However, there were also calls to "lay flowers at the grave of Shiro Sekine, who also died," requesting mention of the Japanese victim, and some critical opinions dismissing it as "political exploitation."

Lee Soo-hyun's bravery is etched into people's memories in various forms, including through Anzen Chitai's song "STEP!" Amidst the complex historical backdrop between the two countries, Prime Minister Ishiba's recent offering of flowers is expected to be a significant step in reaffirming human dignity in helping each other even in difficult circumstances, re-evaluating the spirit of Japan-South Korea friendship, and connecting it to the future.

The context

The incident at Shin-Okubo Station in 2001, where South Korean student Lee Soo-hyun and Japanese photographer Shiro Sekine lost their lives trying to save a stranger, became a profound symbol of heroism and cross-border humanism in Japan and South Korea. This event is often cited as a moment that transcended historical complexities and fostered a sense of shared humanity. Lee Soo-hyun's mother, Shin Yoon-chan, has since dedicated her life to promoting Japan-South Korea friendship, embodying her son's spirit. Prime Minister Ishiba's visit, being the first by a sitting Japanese leader, underscores the ongoing significance of this tragedy and its legacy in bilateral relations, particularly as both countries navigate a path towards future-oriented cooperation despite past difficulties.