Explainer | Explained: how a sea between Japan, South Korea and Russia became geopolitical flashpoint

The patch of ocean is commonly known as the Sea of Japan but South Korea argues it should be known by the more neutral name the East Sea

Joint patrol carried out by China and Russia may have been designed to send a message that their collaboration is ‘a force to be reckoned with militarily’

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A Russian bomber photographed by the Japan Air Self-Defence Force. Photo: Reuters

Published: 3:50pm, 25 Jul 2019Updated: 6:13pm, 25 Jul 2019

The wedge of sea between Japan, Russia, and the Korean peninsula became a new flashpoint this week, with a regional airspace dispute, a seized fishing boat, and missile tests by North Korea aggravating long-standing tensions.

The patch of ocean is commonly known as the Sea of Japan but South Korea argues it should be known by the more neutral name the East Sea.

The dispute over the name exemplifies the numerous conflicting interests in the area, which has been the scene of sometimes intense military and political brinkmanship.

The most serious encounter this week came on Tuesday when Russian and Chinese warplanes conducted their first joint long-range air patrol in the Asia-Pacific over the sea, triggering warning shots from South Korean fighter jets and a round of diplomatic protests.

Analysts say the joint patrol is likely the first of many actions by China and Russia to try to send a message that their collaboration will be an increasingly significant factor in the region.

Explainer | Explained: how a sea between Japan, South Korea and Russia became geopolitical flashpoint

The patch of ocean is commonly known as the Sea of Japan but South Korea argues it should be known by the more neutral name the East Sea Joint patrol carried out by China and Russia may have been designed to send a message that their collaboration is ‘a force to be reckoned with militarily’

The patch of ocean is commonly known as the Sea of Japan but South Korea argues it should be known by the more neutral name the East Sea

Joint patrol carried out by China and Russia may have been designed to send a message that their collaboration is ‘a force to be reckoned with militarily’