Rising Calls for Ryukyu Historical Research Amid China-Japan Tensions

The ongoing diplomatic tensions between China and Japan have been exacerbated by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments regarding Taiwan. In this context, Chinese state media has intensified calls for research into the history and legal claims surrounding the Ryukyu Islands, a chain of islands that includes Okinawa. Historically, the Ryukyu Islands were governed by the independent Ryukyu Kingdom before being annexed by Japan.

South China Morning PostGlobal Times

An academic conference recently held at Fujian Normal University marked the 30th anniversary of the China Ryukyu research institute. This institute is notable for being the only research institution in China dedicated specifically to the study of China-Ryukyu relations. Professor Xie Bizhen, the academic head of the institute, emphasized the unique historical materials related to the Ryukyu Kingdom, which he believes are crucial for understanding past exchanges between China and Ryukyu. He noted that the Ryukyu Islands have a rich collection of artifacts and documents that are not commonly found in other historical contexts.

Global TimesSouth China Morning Post

In an editorial, the Global Times highlighted the geopolitical importance of the Ryukyu Islands, stating that their future trajectory significantly impacts the security concerns of neighboring countries. Professor Xie pointed out that Japan's right-wing political forces have increasingly downplayed the historical ties between China and Ryukyu, leading to a loss of awareness among Okinawans about their ancestral connections to China. He argued that the research into Ryukyu history is essential for restoring historical truths and preserving collective memory.

Global TimesSouth China Morning Post

Despite the academic focus on Ryukyu studies, there are concerns among Japanese scholars regarding the potential impact of rising tensions on collaborative research. Some Japanese academics expressed apprehension that deteriorating state-to-state relations could hinder the development of Ryukyu studies. However, Professor Xie reassured them that while diplomatic relations may fluctuate, academic research should continue uninterrupted.

Global Times

• “The more solid our historical research is, the more it can contribute to improving real-world relations.” — Professor Xie Bizhen, Academic Head, China Ryukyu Research Institute

Global Times

• “In the past, Ryukyu islanders took pride in their ancestral ties with China. But under Japan's dominant narrative today, this history has instead become something to be avoided or not spoken about.” — Professor Xie Bizhen

Global Times

• “At a UN meeting on October 9, China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Sun Lei, solemnly pointed out that China urges Japan to face up to the history of Japanese militarism's war of aggression and colonial rule against its Asian neighbors during WWII, which resulted in grave crimes against humanity.” — Sun Lei, Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN

Global Times

The calls for enhanced research into Ryukyu history are expected to continue as tensions between China and Japan evolve. The Chinese Academy of History's support for the Ryukyu studies program indicates a growing institutional commitment to exploring these historical ties, which may influence future diplomatic interactions.

Global TimesSouth China Morning Post