There are a number of grounds that back up the claim that the current name for the sea should be named as “East Sea.” I will state few of them. First, the Dajokan order, given by the Dajokan (the high administrative body of Japan at the time), confirms that Ulleungdo and Dokdo were islands outside of Japan's territory. Secondly, “Sea of Japan” itself unilaterally reflects Japan’s position in the international community, leaving out contiguous countries like ROK, North Korea, and Russia. This name began to be widely used internationally since the release of “Limits of Oceans and Seas” from 1929 International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). At that time, Korea was under Japanese occupation and thus could not take part in the publication process. However, as you know, “East Sea” has been used by Koreans for over 2000 years, and it is part of Koreans’ lives.

Through the efforts of Korean youth at VANK and other campaigns, the world map producing publisher National Geographic, world textbook publisher DK, international sightseeing publisher Lonely Planet, and other well-known organizations have changed to not independently use the term “Sea of Japan” but “East Sea/Sea of Japan” instead, therefore, I sincerely appreciate if your article joins the trend. I am looking forward to your positive reply!