Is Anti-Japanese Sentiment in Korea Really Dangerous for Travelers?
Recently, in Japan, you may often hear concerns such as, “Do Koreans have hostility toward Japanese people?” or “I’ve heard that anti-Japanese sentiment is dangerous.” On social media and in some news reports, extreme anti-Japanese demonstrations or political remarks are highlighted, which can naturally make people feel uneasy.
However, if you actually live in Korea and interact with locals, the reality is often very different from this impression. In this article, I aim to provide an honest look at the current state of anti-Japanese sentiment in Korea, points to be cautious about, and practical tips for Japanese travelers to enjoy Korea safely and with peace of mind.
Anti-Japanese Sentiment Is Limited to Specific Topics and Situations
In Korean school education, the history of the colonial period is taught thoroughly. As a result, it is true that some people hold critical views of Japan’s past actions. Among middle-aged and older generations, there are also those who have complex feelings due to historical reasons.
However, this is separate from having direct hostility toward “modern Japanese people.”
Today in Korea, many young people feel familiarity and affection for Japanese culture—anime, manga, music, fashion, and food—and a large number openly say, “I like Japan” or “I want to visit Japan.”
In other words, anti-Japanese sentiment is largely limited to political or historical contexts and is rarely felt in everyday life.
Being Identified as Japanese Often Leads to Friendly Treatment
In Korea, many people study Japanese or have experience traveling or studying in Japan, so they often have a positive impression of Japanese people.
In practice, if you speak Japanese on the street, in restaurants, or in cafés, you might hear phrases like, “Are you Japanese?” or “I’m studying Japanese.” In tourist areas of Seoul or Busan, Japanese visitors are common and not considered unusual.
Of course, not everyone is automatically friendly, but generally, Japanese travelers are welcomed as “polite visitors” or “foreigners interested in the culture.”
Topics and Situations That Require Caution
To stay safe and comfortable, it is advisable to pay attention to the following:
- Be mindful of clothing and personal items
→ Avoid wearing clothes or carrying items that display historically sensitive symbols, such as the Rising Sun Flag. - Avoid political or historical topics
→ Subjects like comfort women, forced labor, or the Dokdo/Takeshima issue are highly sensitive. Even with friends, it is safer not to bring them up first. - Do not make political statements loudly in public
→ Discussing historical or political issues in cafés, on the subway, or other public places can make people around you uncomfortable.
Perception Can Vary by Region
Tourist cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Jeju are very friendly to foreigners. They have well-developed infrastructure, and Japanese or English is often understood, making it a comfortable environment for travelers.
On the other hand, in rural areas or places rarely visited by foreigners, some people may be less familiar with Japanese visitors. Older generations, in particular, may hold more conservative views, which can create a sense of distance at first. However, showing polite and respectful behavior usually helps to build a friendly rapport quickly.
If You Plan to Live in Korea, Effort to Understand the Culture Is Key
If you are planning a long-term stay in Korea, it is very important to understand Korean social values. For example:
- Culture that values age and hierarchy
→ Even when meeting someone for the first time, it is common to pay attention to age and use honorific language with older people. - Emphasis on courtesy and cleanliness
→ Clearly expressing greetings, thanks, and apologies helps build trust. - Cherishing “Jeong (정)” with family and friends
→ Once someone becomes close, they often treat you sincerely and warmly.
Understanding and respecting these aspects can make being Japanese seen as “special and interesting” or even “friendly” in the eyes of Koreans.
Voices from Experience: Japanese Residents in Korea
Many Japanese people living in Korea report that they have “never had an unpleasant experience” and even often receive kindness because they are Japanese.
For example, student A said, “At first I was anxious, but after making Korean friends, I felt really comfortable.”
Similarly, B, who was dispatched to Korea for work, shared, “At first I was confused by cultural differences, but by showing respect to others, I was able to build good relationships.”
Summary: Don’t Be Overly Afraid—Engage with Respect
It is true that anti-Japanese sentiment exists in Korea, but it is not directed at individual Japanese people. Rather, it is limited to certain political or historical topics.
There is no need to be overly fearful while traveling or living in Korea. What matters is maintaining basic manners, cultural understanding, and a respectful attitude.
If you engage with Koreans as a Japanese person with respect and an open mind, you will find Korea to be very welcoming. In fact, saying “I’m from Japan” often brings smiles and friendly responses such as “Welcome!” or “I love anime!”
May your experiences in Korea become wonderful and memorable memories.
Table of Contents
