How did portraits of independence figures and commanders escalate the diplomatic tension?

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Portraits of Historical Figures Escalated Diplomatic Tensions Between South Korea and Japan

Portraits of a Korean independence activist and a 16th-century admiral, displayed on banners at a football match, triggered a diplomatic dispute between South Korea and Japan. Japan’s chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, deemed the banners "extremely regrettable" and a violation of FIFA's prohibition against political statements. This was further inflamed when South Korea's Sports Minister, Hakubun Shimomura, questioned the character of the South Korean people based on the banner's style, prompting a strong rebuke from the South Korean foreign ministry for his "rude comments."
Display of Historical Figures on Banners

Two banners displayed before the football match featured portraits of significant Korean historical figures. One depicted an independence activist known for assassinating a high-ranking Tokyo official in 1909, and the other showed an admiral celebrated for repelling a Japanese invasion in the 16th century. These displays, presented to an international audience during a match between the two nations, were interpreted by Japan as politically charged.
Japanese Government's Reaction and FIFA Regulations

Following the display of the banners, Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, publicly stated that the banners were "extremely regrettable." He specifically pointed out that such displays contravened FIFA's regulations, which strictly prohibit political statements at sporting events. This official condemnation from a high-ranking Japanese government official underscored the seriousness with which Japan viewed the incident.
South Korean Minister's Remarks and Foreign Ministry Response

The situation escalated further when Japan's Sports Minister, Hakubun Shimomura, made a public comment suggesting that the style of the banners reflected poorly on the "nature of the people" of South Korea. This remark was perceived as highly offensive by South Korea, leading to a formal response from its foreign ministry. The ministry issued a statement expressing its strong disapproval of Shimomura's comments, labelling them as "rude."
Broader Historical Context of Tensions

The incident occurred against a backdrop of historical grievances between South Korea and Japan, primarily stemming from Japan's 1910-1945 occupation of Korea. Many South Koreans believe Japan has not adequately atoned for historical abuses during this colonial period, a sentiment that frequently surfaces and creates ongoing tension. The KFA also argued that the display of a Japanese military "rising sun" flag by Japanese fans prior to the incident had provoked the South Korean supporters, contributing to the overall escalation.

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How did portraits of independence figures and commanders escalate the diplomatic tension?

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