Japan Boycott Campaign…Experts Say "Could Impact Korean Companies Linked to Japanese Firms"

[Suwon Ilbo= Reporter Kim Ah-hyun] In response to Japan's retaliatory export restrictions, domestic internet users have begun responding with a "Japan boycott campaign."

Centered online, a "boycott of Japanese products" targeting some 90 Japanese companies in electronics, automobiles, clothing, games, and other sectors is gaining strong support.

There are also many internet users arguing against traveling to Japan. In fact, posts about canceling planned trips to Japan are continuously appearing on online communities.

However, experts point out that the internet users' Japan boycott campaign could further worsen relations between the two countries and also harm Korean companies linked to Japanese firms.

Huh Yoon, professor at Sogang University's Graduate School of International Studies, told the Dong-A Ilbo, "If we carry out boycotts against Japanese products, Korean companies and workers involved in the manufacturing and distribution of those products will also be harmed. Rather than approaching it from an emotional perspective, we should find solutions to maximize national interest."

Meanwhile, Lee Hae-chan, leader of the Democratic Party, expressed concern on the 4th about Japan's export restrictions, saying, "It feels like this is not the end, but just the beginning."

At a general assembly of lawmakers held in the National Assembly on the morning of that day, Lee said, "I hear talk that it was due to the Upper House elections, but I don't think that's the only reason. I believe there are multiple ulterior motives. I hope we can share the awareness that this is a start, not an end," calling for urgent countermeasures.