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Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi Visits Yasukuni Shrine
Just the facts
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi paid respects at the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo to honor Japan's war dead on the 81st anniversary of the country's World War II surrender. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi did not attend the shrine in person but sent a ritual offering, continuing a practice established by previous Japanese prime ministers. The site commemorates 2.5 million war dead, including 14 wartime leaders convicted as Class-A war criminals by Allied tribunals following World War II. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the visit and offering, lodging official diplomatic protests with Japanese officials in response. South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep regret over the actions and urged Japanese leadership to demonstrate humble reflection regarding historical military actions.
Why this is news
Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visited Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine on August 15, 2026, marking the 81st anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II. The visit prompted formal diplomatic protests from the foreign ministries of China and South Korea.
Sources
This summary is compiled strictly from the original reporting below.