Korean group working to subvert Tokyo's 2020 Olympic bid

Then you ask...Why S Korea's travel industry smarting from sharp drop-off of Japanese visitors?!

VANKS can appeal to IOC by praising Istanbul and Madrid. How safe and economically advanced than Tokyo these cities are if it wants to stop Tokyo Olympic. Of cause Vank has to submit proof and data, too.

153 comments. Cannot honestly say I studied everyone's comment.

Personally, I have been pleasantly surprised by both Japanese people and Korean people. However, I married a women I met in Beijing. And no, she is not Chinese.

The first claim is not something we can verify, unless one of you can break into IOC's offices and retrieve the letter allegedly submitted by VANK. As such, we have no choice but to give this article the benefit of the doubt, and I've never referred to this claim in my comments above.

http://japanese.yonhapnews.co.kr/pgm/9810000000.html?cid=AJP20130405001500882

With quotes from VANK representative to the reasons.

MC@I see nothing in the above excerpt that indicates the letter to IOC was "online." Please stop trying to change what is unambiguously stated in the original article. Furthermore if you want to take your own internet-driven arguments to their logical conclusion, then how do you explain the fact that VANK has posted nothing "online" to assert that the coverage in the Japanese vernacular media claiming that it sent a letter to the IOC is incorrect?

I'll break it down for you.

This article made 2 claims:

Claim 1: VANK has written to the IOC stating they believe Tokyo does not deserve the Olympic Games given the hate-filled anti-Korea protests, even calling out for massacre of all Koreans.

Claim 2: VANK has circulated an online petition to collect signatures to support their claim.

The first claim is not something we can verify, unless one of you can break into IOC's offices and retrieve the letter allegedly submitted by VANK. As such, we have no choice but to give this article the benefit of the doubt, and I've never referred to this claim in my comments above.

However Claim 2 is misleading (I hope it wasn't deliberate although I won't be surprised if it was), because there was no such online petition circulated by VANK, and as mentioned many times the petition originated from a retired Chinese American engineer/physicist named Dr Don Tow. Did VANK members sign the petition? No doubt many of them did, but to claim VANK circulated the online petition is misleading at best.

So I went to the official VANK website. Their slogan is "friendly korea" and yet 2 of the links on the top page lead to stories about how Japanese killed many ... Chinese (?) in World War II. I also googled VANK and found that according to the urban dictionary it means "a prolific Korean spammer."

Calling for an online link to an alleged online activity seems logical to me. Why is that astonishing for you?

"The letter to the IOC included clippings of coverage on this topic by the New York Times, Washington Post and CNN."

MC@I see nothing in the above excerpt that indicates the letter to IOC was "online." Please stop trying to change what is unambiguously stated in the original article. Furthermore if you want to take your own internet-driven arguments to their logical conclusion, then how do you explain the fact that VANK has posted nothing "online" to assert that the coverage in the Japanese vernacular media claiming that it sent a letter to the IOC is incorrect?

Given Koreans' penchant for engaging in noisy public activities aimed at irritating Japan,

It goes both ways. Are you familiar with the weekly anti-Korea protests in Shin-Okubo? At least Korean protests are not aimed at harrassing innocent Japanese people in Korea.

what makes VANK's action seem so far-fetched to begin with?

So it must be true because it's not far-fetched? I love that.

It astonishes me to no end that there are people in this world whose criteria for "proof" of anything is a link to something they can view online

Calling for an online link to an alleged online activity seems logical to me. Why is that astonishing for you?

It astonishes me to no end that there are people in this world whose criteria for "proof" of anything is a link to something they can view online. It's like the Obama birth certificate argument. Give them something and then they demand something else. Give them that and they insist it's phony and still won't believe it. There's no satisfying them. Given Koreans' penchant for engaging in noisy public activities aimed at irritating Japan, what makes VANK's action seem so far-fetched to begin with?

@Virtuoso - And yet, after 145 comments on this article, we are no closer to seeing an actual link to the alleged online petition by VANK.

If they bothered to write to IOC and various news agencies, the natural course of this action, based on their past would be some appeal to signature petition originated by this Don Tow individual. In any case, it still doesn't change the fact VANK is also involved in this movement.

@Virtuoso - And yet, after 145 comments on this article, we are no closer to seeing an actual link to the alleged online petition by VANK.

CraigHicks@Just because you don't seem to know how to use a search engine doesn't mean a story didn't happen or wasn't reported elsewhere. Check this out, reported by a completely separate media organization on the same day that VANK announced it had written to the IOC to appeal for Japan's exclusion from consideration.

http://news.searchina.ne.jp/disp.cgi?y=2013&d=0405&f=national_0405_012.shtml

I saw plenty of other references to the same story online, but this is as far as I go to hold your willy for you while you tinkle. The Sankei-Fuji group might be right wing, but they are generally a reliable media source. So I hope you'll deign to stop being a troll and accept the piece as truth.

Might I suggest that at least no more permits be given to the anti-Korean demonstrators to demonstrate in zainichi-Korean residential/business neighborhoods, or even banning them altogether?

A first conciliatory step toward international peace and brotherly love?

@virtuosa

Your insinuations that a story attributed to a nationally circulated publication like Yukan Fuji is fabricated -- "hate-inciting fiction" as you put it -- are pretty serious. This time it was easy enough to verify by going to Zakzak, the web version of Yukan Fuji, and typing in the search terms "kankoku," "dantai" and "olympics." And up popped the story on which this article was based!

In that zakzak article by 西村幸祐 Koyu Nishimura I see exactly one external reference concerning this issue

《韓国の民間団体『ＶＡＮＫ（バンク）』は５日、日本の右翼団体が東京や大阪などで在日韓国人を狙った人種差別的な『反韓・嫌韓デモ』を行っていることについて、平和と人類愛を掲げる五輪精神に反すると訴える書簡をＩＯＣに送付した。:

On the 5th (of April?) VANK (description of VANK), concerning the Japanese right wing group racist anti-Korean demonstrations in Tokyo and Osaka targeting zai-nichi Koreans , sent a letter to the IOC claiming that (these anti-Korean demonstrations demonstrations) violate the olympic spirit of peace and brotherly love.

In neither the Japan Today nor the zakzak article do a see a link to or even quote from the alleged online petition.

Therefore, I am still absolutely correct in my assertion that this article is inflaming passions without bothering to do the necessary research to back it up.

I noticed that Koyu Nishimura feels that a strong response is required. Might I suggest that at least no more permits be given to the anti-Korean demonstrators to demonstrate in zainichi-Korean residential/business neighborhoods, or even banning them altogether?

I have a lot of time for Japan but Abe's statement that the Japanese are not xenophobic sounds like the leader of my country telling the world that the UK doesn't have crappy weather. As for WANK or whatever it's called, I wouldn't waste more than a sentence on this unpleasant, bitchy rubbish.

This is undoubtedly true, Japanese are in many cases Xenophobic, however this VANK group doesn't sound any better... I hope that Japan will win, and be allowed to host these Olympic Games..

One could also wish that they would put an end to any racist protest marches (these kind of racists demo's appear to be banned in all other developed countries).

Perhaps Japan hosting the Olympic Games could be a step toward a more inclusive Japan, better integrated with its neighbours including SKorea?

I am a recent observer of the Japan Times. What I am amazed about as I read the most discussed topics and forums in this newspaper is how much the topic of Korea dominates Japanese news, culture, politics, and social consciousness. It's as if Japanese people, in recent times, lack an identity of their own but constantly feel the need to define themselves (news, culture, and politics) in relation to the Korean people, usually by feeling the need to demean and degrade them as an inferior people (e.g. "But what do you expect from Koreans!). This strikes me as a most strangest phenomenon. I also read the Chinese and Korean newspapers as well. I could say that, although they too have serious concerns about the Japanese, it doesn't seem to so passionately dominate their news, culture, and politics. Most Chinese and Korean people, especially the younger generation, seem have other concerns that dominate their consciousness. I think the Japanese paranoia that Koreans (and Chinese) are single-mindedly concerned to "undermine Japan on every level" reflects more of the Japanese psychological insecurity at the current moment of their history then what reality actually seems to suggest.

This previous post, now update, seems applicable here.

This is what happens when children who are brought up in an environment of media and state "encouraged" propaganda. Koreans are instructed from a very young age that "Japanese" are bad and Koreans are the "victims".

This is an ongoing trend from Korea and Koreans, basically "Let's pull down Japan at every opportunity".

• Protest about Japanese flags • Protest the US to change the the naming of the Sea Of Japan to the East Sea. • Korean groups erecting inappropriate "memorials" all over the world. • ATTEMPTING TO RUIN JAPANS OLYMPIC HOSTING CHANCES .....The list goes on and on.

The only time Korea's profess to "like or love" Japan is when they enter golf tournaments or are selling movies and TV shows or are putting on a concert in Japan.

I think Korean's really need to address that big chip on their shoulder.

Anyone who underestimates Koreas/Korean determination to constantly undermine Japan on every level is living with their head in the sand.

The fact that these VANKers are funded directly by the Korean government clearly displays how this attitude and approach runs right through all levels of Korean society. - Sad and scary when you think about it.

Gee. What a surprise. I see some lame comparisons of VANK and Zaitokukai

I'm yet to hear an explanation as to an interesting phenomenon though - who gets blamed for the Zaitokukai? - The Zaitokukai. Who gets blamed for VANK? - South Korea.

Are Zaitokukai funded by the Japanese cabinet much like VANK funded by the President's office?

http://megalodon.jp/2008-1025-1401-21/www.chosunonline.com/article/20081025000028

Is there a University in Japan that will allow Zaitokukai's founding member to teach a class?

http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/people/2013/03/178_132452.html

Since their "East Sea" campaign failed miserably, I guess they need ANOTHER issue to campaign on.

IOC needs more cities in the world trying to participate. Too too expensive operation ! No wonder any Chinese cities nor USA cities are interested.

Hmm Id like to see good evidence for one country that are without extremist of any particular brand. Discontent people like the protesters in Japan, S.K and China are just giving voice to frustration, maybe its mostly about their own accomplishments. If IOC were to take notice of such protests I think the whole olympic movement would be stumbling down in its grave. Remember the turbulence around the olympics in Moscow. Cant blame people for trying though.

It would be responsible of AFP to investigate sources for such hate-inspiring articles, and place those references for all to see.

CraigHicks@Why do you think the French news agency (AFP) was involved in translation of this article? AFP's name was not mentioned anywhere. Your insinuations that a story attributed to a nationally circulated publication like Yukan Fuji is fabricated -- "hate-inciting fiction" as you put it -- are pretty serious. This time it was easy enough to verify by going to Zakzak, the web version of Yukan Fuji, and typing in the search terms "kankoku," "dantai" and "olympics." And up popped the story on which this article was based!

@genjuro - Go on an accuse Koreans of some deep-seated inferiority complex if that makes you feel good, but I notice you are not interested in addressing the truth. This article states that VANK "has circulated an online petition to thwart Tokyo’s selection" which is very misleading and hate-inciting, because the petition did not originate from VANK, and NOBODY is able to find a link to an online petition being circulated by VANK.

Regarding issues like comfort women and wartime apologies, don't forget I'm the guy with mainstream views in line with the United Nations, US Congress, Canadian Parliament, and European Parliament and you're the one with views in line with the neto-uyo.

http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=MOTION&reference=P6-RC-2007-0525&language=EN http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/110/hres121/text http://archive.alpha-canada.org/Motion291/m291.htm http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/comfort-women-waiting-justice

There are probably some VANK members who are patronizing this site showing their "love" towards Korea by demonizing Japan. Which I really do not understand why one has anything to do with the other. If their so called vision of" becoming cyber diplomats to let the world know about Korea and carry the vision of Korea", is by demonizing another nation then how pathetic can it get?

Exactly. This pretty much sums up these vankers and all these pro-Korean apologists on JT. Just read their posts above. They're so desperate to make Korea likeable and look favorable to the world that they have to put down Japan in doing so. Pretty sad and pathetic, really. Only people who are insecure and have inferiority complex feel the need to do that. Then again, we're talking about Koreans.

Sorry@CraigHicks but your skepticism is sorely misplaced

http://www.zakzak.co.jp/society/foreign/news/20130701/frn1307011811004-n1.htm

2015 Olumpic will be in Rio De Jjanero. Tokyo did not ge 2016t. Now, 3 candidates are being questioned for 2020. Istanbul will be questioned about current Anti Govt Protest and Madrid will be questioned about Spain''s trouble of economy. Q & A only. No video, etc. That I gathered from IOC 2020 bid info. It said Wed and Thurs. But did not state the date. It said Tokyo has slight advantage. /It also stated San Diego Tijuana joint bid for 2022 was cancelled. Too expensive? Maybe this is why China and other countries are not interested in 2022 Olumpic?

I guess this is why I sometimes think "I am not proud to be a Korean Background". Stuff like this is very disappointing and makes me even mad to see it written and what the "Korean's" are doing to their neighboring country.

Trying to not have Japan be a city of 2020 Olympics is selfish and ignorant act of idiocy. Besides there is a "North Korean" within this so called "VANK"...it makes it even worse if you ask me.

I am pretty sure whoever they are trying to aim this towards will not listen and I HOPE THEY WON'T LISTEN AND IGNORE ARROGANT VANK (what a stupid name btw). Just let "IOC" handle the fate of Japan being an 2020 Olympic city. Honestly I hope it becomes one in Japan.

2cents end~

Whereas it is not accurate to make broad, general statements about any nationality, it does seem that for Koreans, refusal to lose is stronger than the will to win.

This issue is a case in point.

Instead of "working to subvert Tokyo's 2020 Olympic bid," they could be promoting the positive points of choosing South Korea for the next Olympics venue.

Why support Olympics in Tokyo when they still have the racial segregation objectives? Even the sports hero in Japan such as Ichiro makes provocative remark againist Koreans saying, “It smells like garlic.” And nobody in the Japan media objects. There is no beating around the bush here. Japanese are not impartial. They are not objective. There is one law for the Japanese in Japan and another law for the foreigners.

Looked on their website (given above) and couldn't find any article or petition about trying to stop Tokyo from hosting olympics. (Although there are plenty about Dokdo, Wartime forced name changing, textbooks, etc.) Furthermore, I looked at Yukan Fuji July 2 headlines and couldn't find any headlines corresponding to claimed reporting. Of course it could have been buried in another article or opinion piece.

Therefore I conclude that the above article could be a piece of hate inciting fiction rather than journalism. It would be responsible of AFP to investigate sources for such hate-inspiring articles, and place those references for all to see. (Link to article in Yukan Fuji, or if only in printed version a picture of the headline/sentence, or at very least at "quote". Give the link for the alleged online petition, etc.)

Let the VANKers spin their wheels. Tokyo will be getting the nod to host the 2020 Summer Games and there's nothing they (or anyone else) can do about it.

RR

The fact that S. Korea and VANK contributed very much to Japan;s tsunami victims have no weight on IOC decision. IOC looks at violation and future violation of IOC's 3 guidelines. VANK is appealing to IOC. Are there other countries appealing to IOC? Any groups in any countries can talk smear on other countries. Are Japanese noise makers appealing to IOC? Ishihara had a good lesson of Inose big mouth. He is not going to violate IOC guideline now, I'd bet.

For what it's worth, VANK donated USD9,000 to the 2011 Japan earthquake relief fund, and South Korea were the 5th largest donors as of March 2013, the top 4 being USA, Taiwan, Canada, and Germany (in that order).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humanitarian_response_to_the_2011_T%C5%8Dhoku_earthquake_and_tsunami

'SamuraiBlue'... when I wrote 'next to the locomotive' I didn't realize that readers would literally take that to be right next, or on top of the Locomotive. Anyway if you are that you cannot miss it. Nowdays you have election campaigners parked there blaring their speeches promising to do nice things for everyone.

Grandfield, it's disappointing but most people on JT are not interested in the truth. Every Korea-hater has already had the pleasure of calling Koreans (not just VANK, but the whole nation) anything from a-holes to people with deep seated inferiority complex.

Thank you for pointing out the truth, which I wasn't aware of until you posted it. Sadly, this article will now be displaced from the front page, and there are thousands out there who believe this VANK group started the petition.

I remember a story a while ago saying Korea did not feature in the top 20 list of donors for Japan's earthquake relief, failing to point out that if direct donations to Japan Red Cross as well as private donations were added, Korea would have been in the top 5 givers. Korea ran a month-long donation campaign and collectively gave a large donation, but most people think Koreans were stingy and refused to donate.

cnc

I doubt it since that Locomotive is diplayed with a low fenced area that prohibits access to all automobiles.

I use Shimbashi station to commute to work and back, Every day Morning and Night there is a black truck parked next to the Locomotive engine, blaring out its speakers with speeches of hatred against all foreigners and especially against the Koreans and Chinese being called out by name. Sometimes there is even a white van with someone on the roof spilling out the same crap. The sorry thing is that people actually do stop and listen.. The Japanese government made promises to its people in the past and broke them. For the Tokyoiites this came in the form of the refusal of the promise that the Highway tolls on the Shuto Expressway (originally built for the '64 olympics) were to be taken down after 35 years. Well that 35 year deadline expired in 1999, that was 14 years ago and now it is even more expensive to get on the highway. If Tokyo does win the bid, all that is going to result is more expenditures on infrastructures that will not necessarily be needed but, will still get pushed ahead with false promises that everything will be okay in the future. I don't understand why Tokyo, which has hosted the Games in the past should be given preference over a city that will have the honour for the first time.

I would underscore Mitch Cohen's point that the Korean haters in this thread have not touched the fact that this petition did not originate with the Korean group (VANK) but was begun by a Chinese American physicist living in American and that it is an "international" movement. As of today, there are some 25,273 people who have signed this online petition. One has but to look at the nationalities of these signators to realize that South Koreans are not the only nationality represented in this international petition. They are from countries like Australia, Canada, Singapore, USA, China, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Greece, Germany, Belgium, and on and on. In this light, could you Korean haters answer for me basic two questions:

1) Why do you only target the Koreans as if they began this petition? and that they were the only ones participating? 2) If the Koreans act the way they do because of their anti-Japanese educational indoctrination, how do you explain the fact that so many other nationalities are participating in this petition? Have they also been indoctrinated through their national education? Or did Koreans educators go to each of these countries and write textbooks for their school curriculum as well?

I await your response.

Still, none of the Korea bashers here want to address the fact VANK did not organise this petition. It was started by a retired Chinese American physicist/engineer named Dr Don Tow (note Chinese surname).

http://www.dontow.com/2013/06/why-tokyo-should-not-be-selected-to-host-the-2020-summer-olympic/#more-2947

Never let the facts get in the way of a good story, I guess.

I'm yet to hear an explanation as to an interesting phenomenon though - who gets blamed for the Zaitokukai? - The Zaitokukai. Who gets blamed for VANK? - South Korea.

You all probably think you're informed and objective, but truth is you can't see the bias in yourselves.

I don't blame the Koreans. I don’t particularly feel that the Olympics has to be in Japan, but it’s such a pity that Inose has given Turkey with Islam's discriminatory remark a bad image of Japan. Same thing with Ishihara. I guess we can also say that the people in Tokyo who selected and voted for these bastards also have problems. If that’s a justifiable excuse, then Tokyo’s future is dark.

There are probably some VANK members who are patronizing this site showing their "love" towards Korea by demonizing Japan.

And even participating in this thread ...

Which I really do not understand why one has anything to do with the other. If their so called vision of" becoming cyber diplomats to let the world know about Korea and carry the vision of Korea", is by demonizing another nation then how pathetic can it get?

And that's exactly the point. The whole concept of this group is laughable. Their platform states;

to let the world know about Korea and carry the vision of ‘Korea, as being the hub of Asia and gateway to Northeast Asia; along with being a country which shares its dream, friendship and business with all people around the world

I guess if you expect all that, but in reality are just a distant third or fourth in the "hub of Asia" ranking and in the minds of the international community, well that would probably grate on your inferiority complex and make you want to start/join a group like this one.

I'd hate to have Olympic games in Italy. Our money must be used for more important things as well.

The graphically beautiful Turin Olympic Games was the worst because many of the stands were empty. When these games come to Seoul and Tokyo -I want those stands full even for the prelims.

A number of events reported low spectator attendance despite having acceptable ticket sales. Preliminary competition and locally less popular sports failed to attract capacity crowd as expected. Organizers explained this was because blocks of seats were reserved or purchased by sponsors and partners who later did not show up at the events.

Istanbul, Madrid, and Tokyo were three elected candidate, not in any Italy cities. Inose almost brew up Tokyo chance by badmouthing Turkey until he officially apologized. 3 IOC rules violations are not ignored. For 2020 chance, there is no other candidates. Some people think Olympic fund is a charity fund. It is not Red Cross. Fukushima is Japaese Govt. responsibility, JOC can not shift Olympic funds to Fukushima even if they want. It is just like asking toyota top embezzle Toyota reserve money and give to poor Egypt. Olympic Funds are not responsible for Japanese Govt. problems., Olympic funds are not out money.

I admire Brazilians because they don't care about World Cup, they want their government uses their money for more important problems.

Japan won't have the same problem as there's almost everything done coming to infrastructure... And renovation of Kokuritsu will take place no matter if Japan will win the bid or not.

I think that the real obstacle for Japan getting Olympic games is called Fukushima. You have racists people everywhere, but you haven't an ongoing nuclear disaster everywhere. Japan should use the money for Olympic games to handle that disaster better. So, I hope Tokyo won't get Olympic games. I admire Brazilians because they don't care about World Cup, they want their government uses their money for more important problems. I'd hate to have Olympic games in Italy. Our money must be used for more important things as well.

Yubaru-san: 8 years is 16 Olympiv event years, Japan was ostracized. Now, IOC has better DBMS to keep tabs on countries to select in future. It is not mega-byte DBMS era now.

^ only one or two of the pictures of the protests had anything to do with Japan. And they (mostly over age 60) did them in front of Japanese embassy to make their point, not where Japanese people stroll about.

Yeah, a good example would be Ki Sung-yong. Young sport star, idol of many youngsters in South Korea who made that monkey pose in Asian Cup... Or 'Dokdo ceromony' during Olympic Games. Young Koreans tak it to another level, from the streets to the international events watched by millions of people around the world! It exactly opposite to what you're trying to say.

^ only one or two of the pictures of the protests had anything to do with Japan. And they (mostly over age 60) did them in front of Japanese embassy to make their point, not where Japanese people stroll about.

Really, you are over exaggerating the anti Japanese schooling in Korea. There are no street protests nor flag burning againt Japan, as some people here falsely insists. There are no shouts of anti Japanese slogans

http://www.who-sucks.com/people/the-exciting-world-of-south-korean-protests

Sometimes I wonder what is it in East Asian DNA that makes them want to hate each other so badly.

VANK is huge lobby group and Zaitokukai is big stupid racist group. VANK is consist of about 100,000 members, and Zaitokukai is consist of 12,000 members.

VANK doesn't have 100,000 members, and most don't spend all their time on Japan issues. Zaitokukai on the other hand spend all their time on anti Korean issues. They spend their time extolling their racial superiority, a belief that most Japanese hold, even if they may not be active in real life. That is why a school girl can scream for the deaths of Koreans in the middle of Osaka, but nobody bats an eye, and there are no concerns in Japan about this girl's bad influences that made her wish to kill people based on race.

It's funny that VANK is "small minority" and Zaitokukai is "everybody" in your head. It's good way to offend Japan with defending Korea.

@zomafumi - Sorry, I used an English expression that might be confusing to someone who's not fluent at it. To "go to town on something" is an English expression meaning to take the liberty of doing something freely. I didn't mean to say that the Zaitokukai were "everybody". They are a minority and everyone knows that. I meant to imply nearly everyone here on JT condemned Korea for this nationalist group, but do not condemn Japan for Zaitokukai.

VANK is huge lobby group and Zaitokukai is big stupid racist group. VANK is consist of about 100,000 members, and Zaitokukai is consist of 12,000 members.

VANK is not a "small minority" and Zaitokukai is not "everybody" unlike what Mitch Cohen has said.

If you think we can't give the Olympics to a country that has a small minority of xenophobics or anger towards one specific country, then we might as well cancel the Olympics.

Anyone claiming history leasons taught in Japan is whitewashed really needs to actually take six years course of those lessons since Japan requires to cover 1500 years of her own history as well as about 2000 years of world history. It's basically pacted to the rim and any and all historical accounts are rushed through within the first three and taught again with some detail in the following three at high school but any and all accounts will be no more that two paragraphs.LoL

Social studies is again filled with stupendious amount which is information overload for the kids. At least we don't indoctrinate the kids with hate calling it "National Pride" like our neighbors.

And what makes you think that VANK was strictly created for anti Japanese purposes? Their basic motto is to correct what they believe as incorrect representations of Korea in the world. Unlike the Zaitokukai which is strictly dedicated to anti-Korean activity based on the racial belief that Koreans are racially inferior, VANK engages and challenges broad internet topics about Korea, to bring attention to what they think are mistaken information on Korea that's going around the world. Two completely different animals, if you ask me.

@Mitch Cohen

I like how, when Japanese ultra-nationalists stage weekly anti-Korea protests, people here exercise caution and only condemn that small minority.

I love that. "Just ignore them", after everybody went to town condemning the whole country for the actions of this group.

It's funny that VANK is "small minority" and Zaitokukai is "everybody" in your head. It's good way to offend Japan with defending Korea.

Koreans don't want Tokyo to host the Olympics? Neither do any other foreigners. It's fairly standard behaviour to feel bitter I think.

Alex90, Japanese pop culture was banned until the 1990's because the Korean government was concerned that Korea would be overwashed with Japanese culture, and become a cultural colony of Japan again. They wanted to instill a pride in Korean culture, and nurture their own culture and industry. It was nothing to do with hating on Japan. Despite the ban, Japanese pop culture like Jpop, anime, TV shows, etc, were very much adored and followed by Koreans. Japanese consumer goods were highly desired over Korean ones, despite very high tariffs, and many Koreans bought them in black markets and brought them in from overseas shopping sprees. When the cultural ban of Japanese was lifted, the influence of Japanese culture never took off as much as people expected, and instead waned. When the digital age and the internet came along in the 2000's, it was Korea, not Japan, who were faster in adopting the new age. The result of that is evident today. Now a days, Japanese pop culture and their consumer products don't even register in Korea, as they are treated more like a joke. Koreans now a days, call the Japanese things - galapasgos.

Really, you are over exaggerating the anti Japanese schooling in Korea. There are no street protests nor flag burning againt Japan, as some people here falsely insists. There are no shouts of anti Japanese slogans telling them to get out of Korea. In fact, you can take a Japanese rising flag and march down Seoul streets and nobody would bother you. Couple of years ago, two Japanese women did just that and all they got were friendly smiles. Now compare that to the way Japanese have behaved - attacking ethnic Korean children in schools, attacking Korean tourists who just got off the boat in Japan, attacking and marching everyday to harrass ethnic Koreans in Japan, and attacking Korean tourists telling them to get out and even calling for mass murders of Koreans. None of these have ever happened to Japanese people in Korea.

@Alex80 - again this is where it becomes obvious you know very little about this issue. Certain elements of J-culture was banned, basically J-pop and films. Japanese comics were everywhere, and hundreds of officially licenced/translated Japanese manga could be bought from the corner store outside any school. Captain Tsubasa ("Shoot-dori" in Korean) was the inspiration of many kids to take up football, Dodgeball Kuy Kid ("Piguwang Tongki") replaced dodgeball as the dominant sport during lunch recess for primary school children for at least 2 years, and so on. And don't get me started on Nintendo.

But you apparently know so well Japan, even if you don't live there, only reading stuff about it. So, you can say whatever you want about Japan, and I can't have my personal opinion about South-Korea, reading stuff about it. Interesting.

Of course you can have an opinion formed by reading stuff. But you must also be open to the idea that some of what you read may be biased, and be open to people pointing it out. The article I linked was by a Japanese reporter recalling deficiencies of history education in Japan. Is she biased? Some political agenda behind it? Maybe. If somebody who's lived in Japan contradicts this, and tells me they learnt the WW2 in extensive detail, I'm open to such comments. But it seems that you think what you know is the truth, and anyone who contradicts you is automatically wrong.

Now look, I offer my opinions based on what I know, and if you want to reject its validity then I won't cry over it.

The crux of this article was about the Korean group VANK organising petitions to subvert Tokyo's Olympics bid, and as many have pointed out, it was proven to be misleading. (See Dr Don Tow references above).

Japan could not get Olympic for so many years after 1964,

Then what do you call them getting the XI Olympic Winter Games in 1972? If 8 years is "so many years" to you I wonder how you determine time?

And just exactly how did you come to this conclusion?

You said in Korea Japanese culture ruled in the 1990s, ignoring the fact it was banned, and this shows how strong the anti-Japanese feelings were. Did you read the article?

You keep mistaking me for someone life yourself whose knowledge comes from reading stuff on the internet. Maybe I should go read the internet articles about Italy, because soon I'll know more about Italy than you?

But you apparently know so well Japan, even if you don't live there, only reading stuff about it. So, you can say whatever you want about Japan, and I can't have my personal opinion about South-Korea, reading stuff about it. Interesting.

As for 'indoctrination', do you think Japanese children being taught in extensive detail about the A-bombs

About your link, I find very interesting this sentence "There was also just one sentence on the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki." It's the opposite of what you are saying. It could be the evidence that history is written by the winners, and this is also one of the reasons why the USA always tolerated Japanese nationalism (to the USA a nationalistic Japan has always been better than a pro-communist Japan).

and Japan being the victims of WW2, and skipping much of the details of the horrors of their own regime is not indoctrination?

Where did I write it isn't wrong? But I was talking about the South Korean education, since many people apparently know about the faults in Japanese education but they don't know or don't want admit the faults in South Korean education. I already gave you the evidence of the anti-Japanese education in South-Korea, also Wkipedia confirms it (I had already posted this link, anyway: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Japanese_sentiment_in_Korea#Education). I could give you some links where foreign teachers in South Korea talk about their experiences about this problem, but then you would say that these people's opinions aren't believable.

I'm not living in Japan. Anyway, you are Korean, but apparently you didn't know about the ban on Japanese pop culture in South Korea until the late 90's. Do you want a source about this?

And just exactly how did you come to this conclusion? I know all about the ban and it being lifted. I was living in Korea when the ban was lifted. You keep mistaking me for someone life yourself whose knowledge comes from reading stuff on the internet. Maybe I should go read the internet articles about Italy, because soon I'll know more about Italy than you?

In Italy, this isn't called "education", this is called "indoctrination". In this contest of indoctrination, the hateful feelings towards Japan grow up in little kids in natural way. The kids should only learn that there's a dispute and it's a political problem between the two countries, they shouldn't learn "this is our territory, and Japanese are trying to steal it from us".

Dokdo/Takeshima is a big political issue for both countries, and how is Korean children being taught about Korea's claim to its sovereignty any different from Japanese children being taught about their own claim to its sovereignty. Are you familiar with 'Takeshima Day'?

As for 'indoctrination', do you think Japanese children being taught in extensive detail about the A-bombs and Japan being the victims of WW2, and skipping much of the details of the horrors of their own regime is not indoctrination? Japanese youths still scratch their heads as to why their Asian neighbours harbour anti-Japanese sentiments, and it's little wonder why.

The following is an account by a Japanese writer of the history lessons she received in Japan. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-21226068

I'm still waiting for evidence of Korean children being brainwashed to hate Japan. Care to post them?

That will be "Self Claimed" physicist since searching the web I have not found any peer article nor research paper by this person beside his own web-site you had posted. I am a student of this certain field and know that if there are no research paper published or recomendation of any kind then the certain person has no revelence.

@SamuraiBlue - his own website states he received a PhD from UC Berkeley, but he has worked for 26 years as an engineer in the industry and retired few years ago. But we are not discussing his academic achievements here. The issue is this petition was started by him and VANK was apparently one of many participants, but this article misleads people into thinking the petition originated from VANK.

SmithinJapan: So you're suggesting we should ignore the protests in Tokyo's ethnic South Korean districts and that despite Abe purporting to protest the wingers who engage in said protests, he doesn't make a move to stop them.

This article is about a nationalistic group trying to affect the IOC's decision-making process. Entirely inappropriate. Imagine Republicans writing to the IOC "just to educate them" on Koreans who burn American flags if Korea were in the running. I doubt you'd be saying, "Hey, they do have a valid point. I've seen the flags being burned."

You've already said that Japan is embracing Korean culture anyway. Much stronger evidence than a sliver of the population who is angry by this. I'm not sure how much weight you want to give tiny minorities when the majority if showing a different picture.

I love that. "Just ignore them", after everybody went to town condemning the whole country for the actions of this group. It turns out the petition was started by Dr Don Tow, a retired American physicist (he is probably of Chinese background, as "Tow" is not a Korean name). Check out the link posted above, or see his website.

That will be "Self Claimed" physicist since searching the web I have not found any peer article nor research paper by this person beside his own web-site you had posted. I am a student of this certain field and know that if there are no research paper published or recomendation of any kind then the certain person has no revelence. One more point, Korean sur-names like Kim, Bok,etc. are all adopted from a Chinese origin. Korean scholars accept this view since most names written in ancient text which can be validated from Chinese history books confirms that Korean sur-names are completely different from modern sur-names.

In this contest* of indoctrination

context

Give it to Fukuoka !!!!

Yes, because an Italian now living in Japan must know more about education in Korea, than a Korean who received 9 years of schooling in Korea, visited Korea nearly every year, and reads major Korean news portals every day.

I'm not living in Japan. Anyway, you are Korean, but apparently you didn't know about the ban on Japanese pop culture in South Korea until the late 90's. Do you want a source about this?

http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/opinon/2013/07/165_101852.html

How you can see, it's an article from The Korea Times...I don't think it is pro-Japanese, since I often read this news site, and I think it is rather nationalistic. Can you deny the evidence?

Please post those useful links you have. I hope it can convince me how Korean children are brainwashed to hate Japan as many have claimed. I'm sure it happens somewhere, but to say that this happens everywhere is like saying Abe/Ishihara's denial of past war crimes is the dominant political view in Japan.

I had already posted this good article: http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Korea/GL23Dg02.html From the article:

Japanese students may be kept intentionally ignorant of their forefathers wartime atrocities, but South Korean educators fanned the embers of old grievances. In South Korean classrooms, all levels were taught in special classes about South Korea's sovereign rights over Dokdo with lesson plans supplied by the Korea Federation of Teachers' Associations. The Gyeonggi English Program in Korea, modeled after the Japan Exchange and Teaching program, lectured foreign English teachers about South Korea's rights to Dokdo, regardless of their apathy on the issue.

South Korean news sites confirm this trend: http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2013/02/27/2013022700987.html

In Italy, this isn't called "education", this is called "indoctrination". In this contest of indoctrination, the hateful feelings towards Japan grow up in little kids in natural way. The kids should only learn that there's a dispute and it's a political problem between the two countries, they shouldn't learn "this is our territory, and Japanese are trying to steal it from us".

Try to do some proper research about the problem. If you need, I can give some useful links. In the recent years, Dokdo's problem aroused the anti-Japanese feelings in the country, and it influenced also the education system a lot.

Yes, because an Italian now living in Japan must know more about education in Korea, than a Korean who received 9 years of schooling in Korea, visited Korea nearly every year, and reads major Korean news portals every day.

Please post those useful links you have. I hope it can convince me how Korean children are brainwashed to hate Japan as many have claimed. I'm sure it happens somewhere, but to say that this happens everywhere is like saying Abe/Ishihara's denial of past war crimes is the dominant political view in Japan.

One cannot but wonder about the media's role in all this. As I previously pointed out, it was not the Korean group (VANK) that began this petition but an American from New Jersey, USA. He translated his petition into Chinese, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, and Korean and circulated the letter so that it is an international movement that began in the USA. However, this article makes it sound like it was the Koreans that began this movement and they are the only group involved. Why this selective bias? There are only two choices: Either the journalist did not know about the origin and the scope of the international campaign or he/she neglected to mention it on purpose. If the former, it is a sign of incompetent journalism; if the latter, it is down right dishonest and manipulative. I would like to think the former but the latter is more probable. Many Japanese politicians and media purposely manipulate facts in order to create tension between Japan and Korea for political benefit. This type of tension encourages nationalism at the expense of countries like Korea and serves to strengthen their ultra-conservative base.

I should know, because I grew up in Korea

This explains your biased point of view, but also admitting the possibility you are not biased, you don't live in South Korea now. Anyway, I know that J-pop culture was banned in South Korea until the late 90s. Young Koreans could get J-pop products only illegally.

Anti-Japanese agenda in Korea is hugely overblown, and anyone who argues Korean children are somehow brainwashed into hating Japan is motivated by hatred toward Korea.

Try to do some proper research about the problem. If you need, I can give some useful links. In the recent years, Dokdo's problem aroused the anti-Japanese feelings in the country, and it influenced also the education system a lot.

Is Youtube your only source for informations? There are some good articles on the web about the anti-Japanese education in South Korea, you know. It is a fact. I read a lot of material about it.

No it isn't, but nearly 90% of claims about anti-Japanese education in Korea use THAT ONE VIDEO as their sole piece of evidence.

I should know, because I grew up in Korea, and Japanese culture ruled in the 1990s. Drangonball (every single Korean kid lived and breathed it), Slam Dunk (started a basketball fad that lasted 10 years), Dr Slump when I was younger etc. Japanese click pencils were the envy of all. Even to this day, Japanese novels (Haruki etc) vastly outsell Korean novels, and has for last few years.

Sony Walkmans were objects of desire for every Korean adolescent, and wealthier families had Japanese TVs not the cheaper and inferior Korean type. When I moved to Australia I took up Japanese classes despite my parents telling me Mandarin will be more useful when I'm older.

If I now have reservations about Japan, my Korean education had nothing to do with it. In fact it was discovering the huge network of the Korea-hating neto-uyo spewing hatred that gave me a different view of Japan. But I do know such groups are the minority.

Anti-Japanese agenda in Korea is hugely overblown, and anyone who argues Korean children are somehow brainwashed into hating Japan is motivated by hatred toward Korea.

@Mitch Cohen: Is Youtube your only source for informations? There are some good articles on the web about the anti-Japanese education in South Korea, you know. It is a fact. I read a lot of material about it.

I think China/NK is worse, but it is all bad karma when you think in a negative way. Underhanded tactics only bring you closer to evil and will do nothing positive. -Look at the Asiana air crash.

Hope you are ashamed with yourself. So the death of 2 passengers in the air crash was due to this group petitioning for Japan not to get the Olympic games? What a lovely human being you are.

What is your reaction upon learning this petition originated from a retired American physicist in New Jersey?

Just ignore them. Remember, they are trained to hate Japaneses in their school.

I think China/NK is worse, but it is all bad karma when you think in a negative way. Underhanded tactics only bring you closer to evil and will do nothing positive. -Look at the Asiana air crash.

With Abenomics maybe Japan should be pushing (and can afford) the Tokyo Olympics. Need to push the culture like Korea does also.

how could a group complain about anti-Korean protests in Japan when Koreans are constantly protesting and burning Japanese flags in their own country?

I would love to see some evidence that Koreans are constantly protesting and burning Japanese flags. Where is the evidence for this? In this age of smartphones and Youtube, there's bound to be someone posting them online. I can find you hundreds of videos of anti-Korea protests in Japan from this year alone. Now you find me videos of anti-Japan protests in Korea. And don't tell me you have Korea and China mixed up?!?

They don't want to -- it would mean addressing the hypocrisy

Talking about hypocrisy, how could a group complain about anti-Korean protests in Japan when Koreans are constantly protesting and burning Japanese flags in their own country?

along with being a country which shares its dream, friendship and business with all people around the world.

Except for Japan I guess!

Just ignore them.

I love that. "Just ignore them", after everybody went to town condemning the whole country for the actions of this group. It turns out the petition was started by Dr Don Tow, a retired American physicist (he is probably of Chinese background, as "Tow" is not a Korean name). Check out the link posted above, or see his website.

Remember, they are trained to hate Japaneses in their school.

Where is the evidence for this? Is that the one video on youtube? It happened in one school in 2005 so it must happen every single day, in every school, right? Some people seem to be afflicted by the exact same hatred that they accuse others of.

Just ignore them. Remember, they are trained to hate Japaneses in their school.

whats the problem?

these days, playing durty is fair play

I like how, when Japanese ultra-nationalists stage weekly anti-Korea protests, people here exercise caution and only condemn that small minority.

VANK is not a small minority.

I like how, when Japanese ultra-nationalists stage weekly anti-Korea protests, people here exercise caution and only condemn that small minority. When a minority ultra-nationalist Korean group circulate online petitions, the entire country of SK is at the butt of the joke. You all like to think your own views are balanced, but truth is you are biased more than you think.

I believe International Olympic Committee has eyes nose and ears.

SuperLib: "Smith, you're really stretching to get your usual Japan bashing angle on this one."

So you're suggesting we should ignore the protests in Tokyo's ethnic South Korean districts and that despite Abe purporting to protest the wingers who engage in said protests, he doesn't make a move to stop them. So once again, in Tokyo, the city vying for the 2020 games, we have very, very clear examples of intolerance and hate spewed out by Japanese. You call that fact 'bashing', but I say anyone who willingly chooses to gloss that over by calling someone who points it out a 'basher' is a truly sorry person.

"Either you're saying that Japan is such a horrible choice that exceptions should be made to allow the Korean protestors into the decision-making process, or you're saying these acts should be standard operating procedure for every Olympics."

Neither. I'm saying if Japan is sincere about being accepting of other cultures and nationals, they should address such protests sincerely and not allow them, or in fact have people condone them, and make them illegal, arresting those who refuse to abide by the law if necessary. I have said at least three times on this thread alone that HOW VANK sends the message is not appropriate, and that they themselves are as bad as the Japanese wingers in Shin-Okubo, but the knee-jerk reaction by people like yourself and others that the message is bad because of those who send it is nothing short of spreading the hatred yourself.

"Or you're just thinking, "How can I blame Japan for this?" and not really getting into the bigger picture."

Once again, you completely refuse to look at the message and throw out more illogical comments. You and others are being completely hypocritical.

Craig Dandridge: "However, Mr. Suganuma's statements are rash, politically naive and overtly nationalistic--and ironically serve to support some of the claims in the petition to the IOC."

Exactly! But don't tell that to the haters on here -- they might have to look in the mirror and realize they are doing the exact same thing as what they claim VANK is doing, save that VANK has brought certain realities to light while the reaction is just that -- a pouty, childish, tantrum to try and take away from said realities.

"People who may have ignored VANK, or missed them completely, now might take a second look."

They don't want to -- it would mean addressing the hypocrisy.

Does anyone else out there wonder why Mitsuhiro Suganuma, a former official in Japan’s national security apparatus, is attacking the Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK)--a group of private South Korean citizens--as if that group actually represents the South Korean government?

Does Mr. Suganuma have some evidence that VANK is supported in any way by the South Korean government? VANK comes across as a fringe grassroots organization likely to be given little credence by the IOC.

However, Mr. Suganuma's statements are rash, politically naive and overtly nationalistic--and ironically serve to support some of the claims in the petition to the IOC.

Is Mr. Suganuma really threatening official Japanese political and economic retribution against South Korea for the activities of a small group of South Korean citizens? Really? Mr. Suganuma should know that he is only extending the group's time in the spotlight.

People who may have ignored VANK, or missed them completely, now might take a second look.

I forgot to press the link button for the American, Don Tow's (a physicist from New Jersey, USA) online petition that started this whole international campaign:

http://www.dontow.com/2013/06/why-tokyo-should-not-be-selected-to-host-the-2020-summer-olympic/#more-2947

This article, while not completely inaccurate, gives the false and biased impression that a group of Korean citizens began this campaign to have Tokyo dropped from the 2020 Olympics. The fact of the matter is that is was an American named Don Tow, a physicist living in New Jersey, USA, that began this petition in English and had it translated into Chinese, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish as well as Korean. The Korean group is only one of the many participants in this international movement that began in the USA. So to target only the Koreans as circulating this petition (or implying that they started this petition) is completely inaccurate. Just in case some of you are thinking that I made this up, the following is the link to Don Tow's original link:

http://www.dontow.com/2013/06/why-tokyo-should-not-be-selected-to-host-the-2020-summer-olympic/#more-2947

This coming from a group who's politicians regularly have fisticuffs in Parliament for all to see and these are the guys running the place...they can keep their friendship promotion antics to themselves before promoting it to the rest of the world. Must say though it is incredibly entertaining to watch and happens so often the could turn it into a weekly comedy show...plonkers!

One of three. Tokyo, Istanbul, or Madrid. It is not like early '60 era. IOC can keep records of protesting countries petitions in so many T=bytes memory device, So, S. Korea might not appreciate VANK movement. Even ecpnomically outstanding Japan could not get Olympic for so many years since 1964, I don;t know what kind of violation Japan did but so many years it could not get Olympic deals,

Where would they like the games hosted, then? NK is still bickering, so can't be SK. The Middle East has been having massive protests all over the place, so that's out. Nobody even really watched the games in the US, so there's no real bids being thrown here. Rio already has 2016, so there's no point in them holding it. Africa? Can they even afford it?. They were already held in Britain, so is there a point for another EU country to buy? The last time the games were held in China, foreigners were struggling with breathing in the horrible atmosphere. So, what other real options are there?

It's amazing how delusional the people circulating this petition are.

blaming SK for everything under the sun whenever you can

Smith, you're really stretching to get your usual Japan bashing angle on this one. Either you're saying that Japan is such a horrible choice that exceptions should be made to allow the Korean protestors into the decision-making process, or you're saying these acts should be standard operating procedure for every Olympics.

Or you're just thinking, "How can I blame Japan for this?" and not really getting into the bigger picture.

Watch a few of those Korean dramas on TV to get a feel of their culture.

Are you talking to me? On Italian tv there are not Korean dramas. We have Italian fictions, Latin American telenovelas, North-American soap operas and European soap operas, like the horrible "Sturm der Liebe" (a German soap opera, called "Tempesta d'amore" in Italian...it is very popular). And do you know what? I really dislike all this crap. xP I'm not into this kind of shows, so I hope we'll never see K-dramas on our tv. We already have garbage enough. xD

Sorry, Smith, imo you are buying into propaganda image of happiness. There is some positive effect, sure; it is a public place where we all get to know each other and understand each other a little bit, which we still struggle to do even in this day and age.

But it's also a rigged system where the strong win and the weak are downtrodden. Everyone feeling bad for a country that can't pay to train its athletes, etc., is that real goodness and brotherhood? Or is it just an egotistical confirmation of, whell, we're not like that, thank heavens," and just looking down on ppl?

Sorry to be so cynical, but your "you gotta admit there is a spirit" made me more so, to be honest. It is something we want to believe, more than something that actually exists.

For ppl who really like sports, I think it's great.

Watch a few of those Korean dramas on TV to get a feel of their culture. Then, you will understand that Machiavelli was an amateur.

The truth is that... no one cares about that in the world aside from Japan and South Korea.

This, simply this...

Why don't Japanese use AKAB48 to promote themselves, instead of depending on Kpop.

Heard for the first time...

It's not Korean's fault when the French people don't mind mixing up Japanese mangas with Korean pop culture because they think both are cool, so they don't care where the culture come from.

But I doubt they would be there if it had been Korean Expo as well.

Japanese are upset at and blame Koreans for this, but Koreans can't just invite themselves to those Japan exhibitions. And it's not organised by Japanese but rather French. And there were cases when some French though it came from some part of Japan ;)

@Mitch C: Anyone in any country can make noise about other countries, However, this group is appealing to IOC for the sake of S, Korea, Because this is IOC that has 3 countries as candidates for 2020 events, they are only concerned about demeaning movement against candidate countries. That was why Inose had to apologize Turkey. Well, don't think IOC committees will discard Korean protests. Japan could not get Olympic for so many years after 1964, Korea will have same fate. Not China, though, China keep quiet. It can say plenty about USA, but......

LOL Alex80, I think it would be so funny if this happened.

NBC Olympic Coverage, Report from Tokyo: "And here we see all the Japanese protestors against Kpop.... blah blah "

NBC Viewer: "What is Kpop? Oh it's Korean pop music. Say what? You got to be joking! lol.. They are actually protesting over some pop music?" lol at Japan.

I think that more stupid is using Japanese events to promote Korean one and selling products with so hated in Korea symbols of rising sun on Korean stands. It seems like Koreans don't have a problem with it when they can few bucks out of that.

I think it's silly and childish to get upset over what the Japan exhibitors at Paris are doing to promote Japanese pop culture. It's not Korean's fault when the French people don't mind mixing up Japanese mangas with Korean pop culture because they think both are cool, so they don't care where the culture come from. To the French, they may think that Japanese culture is also Asian culture which are similar, and end up mixing them up. Think about it. Japanese are upset at and blame Koreans for this, but Koreans can't just invite themselves to those Japan exhibitions. Hey, I'm not happy either that Korean pop being misrepresented as Japanese pop either. LOL. Why don't Japanese use AKAB48 to promote themselves, instead of depending on Kpop. This is just so silly.. my god Lol.. maybe I should protest march too. lol..

In any country that have silly childish insecurity complexed protests that go on for months, against some stupid pop culture that supposedly is ruining purity of Japan, doesn't deserve the games.

It's just a bunch of guys who protest against that stupid pop culture vs tons of people who buy that crap, so what you are saying is really pointless. Why can you see only one side of the whole matter? Japan is the main market for your pop culture. Plus, nobody around the world cares if some crazy guys protest against some silly pop culture...I don't think that to see 200 or 300 right-wing guys protesting against Kpop would be a great news. Hundred thousands of people from Brazil, who are protesting AGAINST the World Cup in Brazil for their RIGHTS...this is a big news. And I think they are AMAZING, they know the real values in life.

In any country that have silly childish insecurity complexed protests that go on for months, against some stupid pop culture that supposedly is ruining purity of Japan, doesn't deserve the games.

I think that more stupid is using Japanese events to promote Korean one and selling products with so hated in Korea symbols of rising sun on Korean stands. It seems like Koreans don't have a problem with it when they can few bucks out of that.

In any country that have silly childish insecurity complexed protests that go on for months, against some stupid pop culture that supposedly is ruining purity of Japan, doesn't deserve the games. But I say let Japan have the games, and let all eyes be on Japan. It will be a perfect timing to bring up all these issues while the world's press have their eyes set on Japan. I am for Japan's Olympic staging.

Chinese and Korean book-texts*

textbooks, sorry for all my typos

Really? So Japanese government didn't do anything wrong and they are totally innocent?

When I said

So, these countries should only try to move on, but all of them continue to act like little kids just because they try to distract their own people from the inner problems.

I was including also Japan. Anyway, your country elected a right-wing president, daughter of a former dictator...I don't think she is better than Abe like choice to build friendly relationships in Asia. Your country is so similar to Japan in the ugliest aspects (nationalism, high suicide rate), you only can't see it.

so the actions of VANK are going to hurt Korea's chances in hosting sporting events in the future, but the flag-waving Korea-hate protesters won't hurt Japan's chances? I hope you can see the bias, for your sake.

The truth is that... no one cares about that in the world aside from Japan and South Korea.

@toshiko - so the actions of VANK are going to hurt Korea's chances in hosting sporting events in the future, but the flag-waving Korea-hate protesters won't hurt Japan's chances? I hope you can see the bias, for your sake.

Japan is totally innocent in this, that's why they're about to elect a politician in the local elections who actually advocates the stopping of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and advocates expelling of all Koreans from Japan.

Wasn't some Korean politician making appeal to Zainichi's to come back to the country and serve in the army? How many got back after that call? None? That's how Koreans in Japan love South Korea it seems.

VANK people do not realize they are violating IOC rules. Remember Inose had to apologize to Turkey for badmouthing Turkey to get Japan back to one of three candidate countries? Now, things changed. More some group degrade Japan, chance that Japan get 2020 will becoming sure. VANK movement may obstruct 2022 chance to S. Korea and many more yeara. . Meanwhile, Mainland China may be one of 2022 candidates along with Japan.

So, these countries should only try to move on, but all of them continue to act like little kids just because they try to distract their own people from the inner problems.

Really? So Japanese government didn't do anything wrong and they are totally innocent? Japan is totally innocent in this, that's why they're about to elect a politician in the local elections who actually advocates the stopping of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and advocates expelling of all Koreans from Japan. Well I would love to see that, really. I mean, you are totally right, Japanese are not doing or saying anything to deteriorate the relations. It's all other's faults.

Lowly: "but "values that the Olympics espouse"??"

Of COURSE the people at the IOC and others involved put money ahead of everything, but you would agree that there is a 'spirit of the games', would you not? I wasn't talking about the people in charge of the decision making process -- on the contrary I was saying they pat each other on the back and exchange money for completely selfish purposes, while the idea of bringing people together and accepting each other in the spirit of fun and friendly (okay, often bitter) competition is second if considered at all.

I agree these people may well have a self-serving agenda, but again, it doesn't mean the points they bring up are wrong.

Ossan: "No smith, these people are petty and pathetic. South Korea is not even a contender so whatever gripes they have have nothing to do with he Olympics."

Who on earth ever said they were a contender besides people going off topic? They 'gripes' have EVERYTHING to do with the Olympics by bringing up the point that Japan is not accepting of foreign nationals and as such not fit to host the games.

"Since when is bigotry and ultra-nationalism "good points"?

Never, but doesn't stop you from supporting the same when doled out from Japan, or blaming SK for everything under the sun whenever you can (ahem... since you ask about how they can be 'good points'). It's just amusing you prove my point in that it goes both ways without you even realizing it. How are these nuts different from those in Japan, or Abe's ultra-nationalism for that matter? well, save for the fact VANK brings up some good points while the latter are just upset SK culture has made such inroads here or pretending history never happened.

Alex, I am not sure if Koreans and Chinese still want monetary compensation from Japan.

Koreans refuse to admit that the problem about compensation was settled with the Korea-Japan Normalization Treaty of 1965. I agree about the fact Japan should stop downplaying their war crimes, but if you think Chinese and Korean book-texts are not biased, you are wrong.

So, these countries should only try to move on, but all of them continue to act like little kids just because they try to distract their own people from the inner problems.

Do you know how many times my country has been invaded during its history? The Louvre Museum is plenty of masterpieces that French stole from us (I'm Italian), but we deal with it. They'll never give us our masterpices back, anyway we are allies in EU.

Alex80, you're still bringing up one incident in 2005, which by the way made news in Korea too, with Koreans calling them to take them down. There are no anti-Japanese protests in Korea, other then maybe some groups numbering a few dozen old men protesting the Japanese government's speeches in front of the Japanese embassies. For instance, there are no equivalent hate marches in Seoul against Japanese tourists and residents, telling them all to get out of Korea and that they should all be killed, that you see often in Tokyo against Koreans. In Seoul, all the subways stops announce the stops in Japanese, Japanese road signs are everywhere, for the benefit of all the Japanese tourists. We want your tourist's money, why would we be stupid enough to ruin that with hate marches against Japanese visitors who are welcomed in Korea? After all, what the Japanese government does has nothing to do with individual Japanese people.

How many times Japan must pay? South Koreans should blame their government.

Alex, I am not sure if Koreans and Chinese still want monetary compensation from Japan. After all, there are only a handful of survivors left, most aged 85+ years old. I think what Koreans and Chinese want from Japan is acknowledgement of their war crimes (I guess many would say Japan has apologised enough times), but also for Japan to stop downplaying their war crimes at every opportunity, not only the right wing loonies on Youtube and 2ch but prominent politicians including the Japanese PM. What good is an apology that comes with strings attached? What good is an apology that is under threat of being revised?

Japan's denial of past war crimes is a well-researched subject, with views by academics all over the world available to view at the click of a mouse button.

I personally found interesting this article written by a Japanese writer, looking back on the history education she received in Japan. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-21226068

Coming from a laughable country steered by their own intelligence institutions, lol

Plus, about the anti-Japanese education in South Korea (included the matter of those drawings displayed at Gyulhyeon Station on the Incheon subway line) and many other problems between Japan and South Korea, I would suggest some people this very interesting article by James Card, a freelance writer in South Korea: http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Korea/GL23Dg02.html

From the article: "In January, declassified dossiers relating to the Korea-Japan Normalization Treaty of 1965 opened the first old wound. It was the first disclosure to the Korean public; it revealed that Seoul demanded US$364 million compensation for individuals who died, were injured or used as laborers during Japan's 35-year occupation on the Korean peninsula. Instead, the South Korean government received $800 million, in a combination of grants and low-interest loans, as reparations from Japan.

South Korean dictator Park Chung-hee agreed that after this payment, South Korean citizens would give up their right to make individual claims against the Japanese government. What the declassified documents revealed was that Park only paid out about 2.56 billion won ($251 million) to families killed by the Japanese and 6.6 billion won to owners of destroyed property. None of the thousands of South Koreans conscripted into the Japanese military and labor workforce received compensation.

The remaining money was earmarked for nation-building construction projects. Park's often-criticized vision of linking Seoul and Busan in the south by expressway became a reality. He poured money into developing infrastructure and heavy industry, especially his favored state-owned business, Pohang Iron & Steel, which later became Posco, one of the world's top steelmakers."

How many times Japan must pay? South Koreans should blame their government.

smithinjapan: Korean shows are more popular than their Japanese counterparts, more DVDs of Korean dramas are rented instead of Japanese, bands from Korea have huge followings, etc.

So.....you're saying that a vast majority of Japanese are embracing Korean culture? Seems more indicative of Japan as a whole instead of a tiny sliver of right wingers.

NONE of this is representative of the spirit of the games, so why should this lack of acceptance and hatred by Japanese in Tokyo not be pointed out to the IOC?

Because the Olympics is a time when people are supposed to put aside their political bickering.

No worries, the winner is... Istanbul.

@Thommo Rees:

"A large number of anti-Japanese images made by school children from Gyeyang Middle School, many of which depicting acts of violence against Japan, were displayed in Gyulhyeon Station as part of a school art project." Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Japanese_sentiment_in_Korea#Education

To you, the great "masterpieces":

http://aog.2y.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=1550

http://aog.2y.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=1558

IOC chose three places. Madrid, Istanbul and Tokyo for 2020 Olympic events. It means Spain, Turkey and Japan. Safety (for game participants and games, etc). Olympic funds availability. and many more facts. Spain has terrible economic situation. Turkey has fight between Govt and its citizens daily. Japan? Japanese Govt does not send SDF to shoot people;s rally (is there any?). Are there daily bombings everywhere in Japan? Japan already have Olympic funds stashed, Beside that, Olympic in Japan generate plenty ad and commercial incomes for IOC. Are there advertiser corporations such as Electronic, Automotive makers in Spain or Turkey? Anyone can promote a city in their country but they were not chosen for 2020.

Former mayor Ishihara wanted to Olympics to fulfill a nationalistic dream of showing off Japan to the world. The idea of wasting billions of yen (my taxes) on something like the Olympics is stupid. We do not need the Olympics. Send it back to Greece where it came from. It is must a profit point for some 1%ers. I do not support the spirit of this VANK, but I support their efforts, and I hope there is an effect.

@SamuraiBlue - are you familiar with the 'GloriousJapanForever" channel on Youtube, which seeks to glorify Japan but nearly all their videos are about demonising Korea? It goes both ways, and if you can't see that god help you. Korea and Japan deserve each other.

I have watched them. IIRC it covers such topics as Takeshima and Comfort Women. I think he makes a good case for Takeshima and ptiches it at a level that's easy to read. For comfort women he isn't finished yet, but just because he doesn't buy the Korean story (which is accepted by the rest of the world - but hey, the rest of the world also has no motivation to look at this in depth) doesn't mean he is a Korean hater. I also remember a vid about all the things Korea supposedly imitates Japan in (starting with Honda vs Hyundai).

Well, we can debate his points, but frankly at no point do I see any hate against all Koreans. IF you accept his premises as true, his conclusion is logical, but he still doesn't hate Koreans.

I partly blame Japan for this (I know, hear me out). Why did the Japanese government allow (i.e. fail to ban) these weekly xenophobic protests, and give groups such as VANK a seemingly valid case? They are saying that Japan's claim of being inclusive and accepting is false, and even if you say that it's a small vocal minority, anyone who's lived in Japan knows we will forever be gaijin.

Where is your sense of freedom of speech? Yes, I know a lot of countries have "hate speech" laws, but by their very nature they are infringements on freedom of speech already and are fundamentally dangerous because critical speech can often be hurtful and hate speech can be expanded to cover them. I'm happy to tolerate a few hate protests to maintain freedom of speech. The End.

I saw that video too. Did you also see the other video? What other video? That's right, there's only ONE video showing anti-Japanese drawings supposedly commonplace in Korea. That video was a footage by Korean news media, who were astounded to learn this was taking place in a classroom. If this type of disgusting anti-Japanese drawings were all over the place (like often claimed by haters on youtube), then wouldn't there be dozens of similar videos? Think about it.

Well, they were in a very public place, though.

you can find theme* easily on the web

them

Uhm, I see some people disagree with me, but what I said is true. It's absolutely true that there are anti-Japanese protests in South Korea. It's absolutely true that in South Korean schools there's an anti-Japanese education. I can give you the sources where you can see the anti-Japanese drawings (they were made because of Dokdo). Political and historical disputes should be problems treated only by governments, not a reason to educate little kids to hate another country. Many biased pro-Korean people here. South Korea's cheap pop culture (aka soft-power) didn't buy me, sorry. The harder they try (like this group, VANK), the more they fail with me.

Korea and Japan deserve each other.

This. And they care so much about what the rest of the world think about them...It's so annoying. Both these countries' ego is huge. I'm glad my country isn't that nationalistic. We are plenty of faults but we admit them, at least. We only want our government works for us, and not for the sake of their pockets (sadly, they do the second thing).

Why does the South Korean government allow xenophobic protests as well? Plus, it also allows anti-Japanese education in the schools, where little kids must draw offensive pics about Japan (I saw these horrible drawings with my eyes, you can find theme easily on the web). Both the countries are creepy under this point of view.

I saw that video too. Did you also see the other video? What other video? That's right, there's only ONE video showing anti-Japanese drawings supposedly commonplace in Korea. That video was a footage by Korean news media, who were astounded to learn this was taking place in a classroom. If this type of disgusting anti-Japanese drawings were all over the place (like often claimed by haters on youtube), then wouldn't there be dozens of similar videos? Think about it.

Ya-boo sucks...

Grow up SK.... people like this are making you look like a bunch of petty fools.

Why did the Japanese government allow (i.e. fail to ban) these weekly xenophobic protests

Why does the South Korean government allow xenophobic protests as well? Plus, it also allows anti-Japanese education in the schools, where little kids must draw offensive pics about Japan (I saw these horrible drawings with my eyes, you can find theme easily on the web). Both the countries are creepy under this point of view.

I partly blame Japan for this (I know, hear me out). Why did the Japanese government allow (i.e. fail to ban) these weekly xenophobic protests, and give groups such as VANK a seemingly valid case? They are saying that Japan's claim of being inclusive and accepting is false, and even if you say that it's a small vocal minority, anyone who's lived in Japan knows we will forever be gaijin.

I don't know why people in VANK is getting involved in this. Quite silly, in my opinion. They should just let Japan strangle themselves by staging the games. I think it would be quite funny if the world sees for themselves all those hate marches against Koreans in Tokyo at the same time as the opening ceremonies. As for the games itself, I'm not quite sure why they're even thinking about holding the games in a country polluted by nuclear dust which is getting worse as the days pass.

smithinjapanJul. 06, 2013 - 01:00PM JST Sorry, but for all those posters automatically calling what VANK is doing 'bitter' or calling the people themselves A->holes, while their intentions are obviously not very good, they raise a lot of good points

No smith, these people are petty and pathetic. South Korea is not even a contender so whatever gripes they have have nothing to do with he Olympics. Since when is bigotry and ultra-nationalism "good points"?

SamuraiBlueJul. 06, 2013 - 10:13AM JST There are probably some VANK members who are patronizing this site showing their "love" towards Korea by >demonizing Japan.

The above is proof.

@SamuraiBlue - are you familiar with the 'GloriousJapanForever" channel on Youtube, which seeks to glorify Japan but nearly all their videos are about demonising Korea? It goes both ways, and if you can't see that god help you. Korea and Japan deserve each other.

I noticed during my time in Korea and even more so in Japan, it's almost always a group of men who galavant about spouting verbal crap and not so women in society. I'm sure there are plenty of xenophobic Asian women out there but I'm quite sure the insecure men far outweigh them. Back on topic though, aside from Japan not deserving hosting the Olympics in my opinion, how pathetic do you have to be to protest like a bunch of four year olds to hamper their bid? I'm sure the IOC will make up their minds by themselves. (whether or not Abe will offer the committee bribes beside the point!)

smith,

fine, jpn keeps its dirty laundry as invisible as possible, give it more air, great idea. but "values that the Olympics espouse"?? First, I can't imagine any Olympic officials sitting aroung in meetings espousing any values, more like money money money, and, can I get some of that money? Next, it's like, someone made a damaging racial comment, how do we spin this so we don't look bad??

as for ave ppl in olympic host countries, while sure, j xenophobia is really endemic in a really iyarasii way, there is more than enough racism and prejudice and stupidity going around everywhere.

problems in jpn, bring it up around the olympics, let ioc know, great, but this group does seem like they have this other self-loving agenda.

I have a lot of time for Japan but Abe's statement that the Japanese are not xenophobic sounds like the leader of my country telling the world that the UK doesn't have crappy weather. As for WANK or whatever it's called, I wouldn't waste more than a sentence on this unpleasant, bitchy rubbish.

I am not taking sides on Korea or Japan, but I think the reason why VANK is doing this, is because the right wing politician Shintaro Ishihara is the chairman for the 2020 Tokyo bid.

Pretty stupid, I must say. And this is coming from a Korean.

badsey: Some Korea was just given the 2018 Winter Olympics and are not at all vying for the Summer Games. You completely miss the point, which is that Japan is bidding for the games and claiming they espouse the values necessary to host them, including a willingness and welcoming of foreign nationals, but many still spit on even third and fourth generation Koreans, and will not accept them. Again, just look at the protests that occur in areas with ethnic Koreans. They are merely trying to shed light on this and show the IOC that in fact the Japanese claim to be foreign-friendly and that they deserve the games needs to be a little more closely examined.

This is a underhanded challenge: The correct way to challenge would be Seoul vs Tokyo: 2020 Summer Olympics. As far as most Japanese are concerned Korea is not even in the game, and with the North acting up who could honestly put an Olympics in Korea right now?

People should not be supporting these pathetic and weak challenges. Is Korea saying they want a 2024 Olympic challenge? It just seems they want to complain with no main goal (objective) in sight.

Korean Olympic (male) speed-skaters are the worst in sportsmanship, but great competitors. --> I actually enjoy watching them, because they are great cheaters and foul-players (very entertaining).

Get a life people in VANK, stop trying to act like North Korea with trying to get the worlds attention focused on you.

Sorry, but for all those posters automatically calling what VANK is doing 'bitter' or calling the people themselves A-holes, while their intentions are obviously not very good, they raise a lot of good points (even if only indirectly) about how people of different ethnicities can be treated here. There are literally police-condoned protests right in the heart of Korean communities filled with vitriol by wingers simply because Korean shows are more popular than their Japanese counterparts, more DVDs of Korean dramas are rented instead of Japanese, bands from Korea have huge followings, etc. NONE of this is representative of the spirit of the games, so why should this lack of acceptance and hatred by Japanese in Tokyo not be pointed out to the IOC? While Abe is quoted in this article as stating any noisy protests against Koreans is unacceptable, the man is still on a nationalist mission and still helping to promote hate himself through changing textbooks, denying certain historical facts, attempting to rescind apologies, etc.

"“South Korea believes it is superior to Japan both spiritually and culturally,” says Mitsuhiro Suganuma,"

Which means you do not think so, which means you think Japan, as most Japanese do, is superior (at least to its Asian neighbours... definitely not the US) in both respects. The road goes both ways.

"...Korean athletes have been criticized for episodes of ill-mannered, unsportsmanlike behavior at international sports events, including the Olympics, World Baseball Classic and others."

Yeah, unlike athlets like Ichiro throwing a tantrum when his team lost twice to SK and whipping his helmet into the dugout, saying he looked forward to beating the 'garlic eaters', etc. Once again, it goes both ways.

The way VANK is doing what they're doing may not be the proper way to do it, but the message that Japan is not the 'foreign friendly' nation it is pitching to the IOC needs to be addressed in any decision making as to who gets the 2020 or any other games.

Nice, the kind of rabid rabble-rousers that end up making it a more difficult environment for average foreigners like you and me.

Discrimination in Japan is something the outside doesn't know enough about, and using things like the olympic bid to bring it up, or, say, abuse of the women's judo team, can be important or a good step. But on the other hand, this groups seems to have their own narrow nationalistic agenda, and will likely create as many problems as it will solve, if not more...

"Not xenophobic", and from Abe no less!!

ya, right, I'm

ROFLMFAO

Thommo Rees,

I respect your comment ans I wish it is true, so that I could just detach from this issue. VANK is a quit big organization not a minority grope like 200 people go to Korean Town in Tokyo to make a noise. VANK has a enough influential power to affect some local political decision even in America. As a result, the sex slave monuments in NJ, NY are there based on their historical point of view.

They have used the Olympics stage to engineer their smear campaign.In the site for petitions, It includes some specific numbers from the monument as if it came from the 3rd person's point of view. Over 200,000 Korean girls and women were abducted by Japan forcefully, that states on the monument in the Eisenhower Memorial Park in NY. I respect their opinion, even though that is not true story, as long as that is what they think, but they have enough power and ability to set the monuments in USA.Then their opinion has become the historical statement confirmed by US local government. I can not see VANK as Korean version of those flag-waving loons in black vans.

The weekly anti-Korean protests are a huge issue IMO. Which other developed nation has hundreds of protesters promoting hate against a particular ethnic group in its capital city, week in and week out? Even in Korea, a country often accused of hatred toward Japan, you don't see regular protests of this nature. I almost get the feeling that the Koreans don't care as much about Japan as we think.

Thommo Rees

If I remember correctly they recieve donations from various Korean companies/people and is link with the Korean Government so I don't think they fit as a minority group.

Hang on right there.. this is basically an ultra-nationalist group, Korean version of those flag-waving loons in black vans. So why are people so quick to jump on the Korea-hate bandwagon? If you hate the entire country based on this minority, how are you any better than the people you condemn?

I thought Koreans have learned something from their own mistake at the Soccer game as their bitter lesson in London.They are supposed to know by now not mix Olympics and politics. The Koreans have not learned anything yet. What a self-centered view point they have!!!

There are probably some VANK members who are patronizing this site showing their "love" towards Korea by demonizing Japan. Which I really do not understand why one has anything to do with the other. If their so called vision of" becoming cyber diplomats to let the world know about Korea and carry the vision of Korea", is by demonizing another nation then how pathetic can it get?

South Korea believes it is superior to Japan both spiritually and culturally, says Mitsuhiro Suganuma

im sure s. korea would say that japan believes it is superior. theyre both right.

not xenophobic? anyone whos been here more than a day knows this is absurd.

What a bunch of whiny losers. Seriously, how insecure can you get? Then again we're talking about Koreans.

The Japanese people place importance on peace and are not xenophobic.

Has Abe never met a Japanese person?

bgaudry, good one!

How sad

Pathetic. I don't know whether to laugh or cry when I hear about people like them.

What a bunch of vankers!

While I sincerely hope Tokyo does not win in it's bid, I don't appreciate seeing news like this. Let them lose or win for that matter based on the IOC and not outside groups like this one here.

I would like to see the source of this information though.

What a bunch of bitter aholes.