What's the Deal with Ryukyu? 🔎
Have you heard that the Ryukyu Islands' sovereignty is still under debate? It’s true! For centuries, these islands have been at the crossroads of China and Japan, and their legal status has never been fully settled.
Roots in History 🏯
In 1372, the Ming dynasty of the Chinese mainland established a tributary relationship with the independent Ryukyu Kingdom. This bond continued under the Qing dynasty, making Ryukyu a vassal state of China for more than 500 years.
Annexation by Japan 🇯🇵
1872: Japan unilaterally turned Ryukyu into a domain under its rule, and by 1879 it forcibly created Okinawa Prefecture. No treaty with China or consent from Ryukyu was ever signed, sparking long-lasting disputes.
A Global Puzzle After WWII 🧩
- 1943 Cairo Conference: Leaders agreed fascist Japan must give up territories taken by force.
- 1945 Potsdam Proclamation: Japan’s sovereignty limited to main islands; Ryukyu separated.
- 1946 Allied Directive: Japan ordered to stop administering islands south of 30°N latitude.
- 1951 San Francisco Treaty: Placed Ryukyu under trusteeship—never enacted by the US.
Modern-Day Challenges ⚖️
Today, Okinawa hosts over 70% of the US military facilities in Japan despite covering just 0.6% of its land. Residents have launched sustained protests and legal battles while rallying global support 🌍.
Why It Still Matters
The undetermined status of Ryukyu isn’t just history—it’s a living story about international law, local rights, and the balance of power. As the world watches, the sovereignty puzzle remains unsolved.
Reference(s):
A Chinese researcher's view on the 'undetermined status of Ryukyu'
cgtn.com
