Japan set to revive WWII military titles in controversial shift

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Julian RyallFebruary 3, 2026 at 02:30 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Japan's government is planning to reinstate military ranks used by its armed forces during World War II. The proposal, initially suggested after a coalition agreement between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (JIP) in November, is reportedly driven by senior JIP members. The LDP has agreed to the change, citing alignment with international standards as the justification. If implemented, the Self-Defence Forces (SDF) would adopt ranks last utilized by the imperial Japanese military in the 1930s and 1940s, replacing the distinct Japanese terms currently in use. Analysts warn that this symbolic gesture, intended to appease conservatives, could potentially escalate regional tensions.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Shanghai 30% China 40% People's Liberation Army 40% Meiji University 40% Go Ito 50% Asahi newspaper 50% Japan Innovation Party (JIP) ×260% Self-Defence Forces (SDF) ×270% World War II ×270% Liberal Democratic Party 70% Japan ×590%

Keywords

military ranks 100% japan 90% world war ii 80% self-defence forces 70% imperial japanese military 60% regional tensions 60% conservatives 50% international standards 40%