Cyber Diplomacy Organization VANK has sent a letter to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, expressing deep concern over the actions of Ukrainian Ambassador to Japan, Sergiy Korsunsky. The letter urges the ambassador to issue an apology.
On September 26, 2024, Korsunsky posted a map on his social media labeling Dokdo as a “disputed area,” which sparked outrage in South Korea. Earlier, on September 3, 2024, he also caused controversy by visiting Japan’s Yasukuni Shrine, a symbol of Japanese imperialism.
VANK criticized these actions, highlighting the contradiction of Ukraine, a country suffering from Russia’s invasion, ignoring the historical wounds inflicted on Korea by Japanese imperialism. The organization sees the ambassador’s behavior as a betrayal, especially considering Korea’s past struggles with Japanese aggression.
As a response, VANK has launched a global campaign, calling for an official apology. In the letter, VANK raised concerns about the ambassador’s visit to Yasukuni Shrine, which they view as inappropriate for a representative of a nation fighting against invasion. The shrine, associated with Japan’s militaristic past, contradicts Ukraine’s current stance against Russian aggression.
VANK also condemned the labeling of Dokdo as a disputed territory, calling it a baseless claim and criticizing Korsunsky for his inappropriate conduct as a diplomat. They emphasized that the ambassador must better understand historical facts and fulfill his diplomatic responsibilities.
Leading the campaign, VANK researcher Koo Seung-hyeon stated that such actions could harm Ukraine’s international image, especially when global support is critical. VANK also reminded President Zelensky of their past efforts to raise international awareness of Ukraine’s plight through various anti-war campaigns.