Japanese Media Report Bae Yong-joon's Remarks on Dokdo

On March 21-22, several Japanese media organs reported about South Korean actor Bae Yong-joon's remarks on the Dokdo islets. The Kyodo News, for instance, published an article entitled "Yonsama: Believing in Wise and Calm Solution". The article said that Bae had posted a message on his personal Web site saying, "Dokdo belongs to Korea".

Shortly after the message was posted, the Japanese media reported extensively on Bae's remarks on March 22. The front pages of Japanese dailies carried the headlines "Yonsama Says Dokdo is Korean Land on His Website" (Sports Hochi) and "Bae Yong-joon: I Want to Stay Connected Spiritually Rather Than Draw Territorial Lines" (Mainichi Shinbun). They wrote that Bae's answer on a question regarding the Dokdo issue at a press conference that was held on the filming set of the movie "April Snow" on March 17 had sparked a controversy in Korea. The Japanese newspapers said the actor had promised to do his best to help solve this issue.

On March 21, Bae wrote on his personal Web site, "Dokdo is the South Korean territory. That's why we need to deal with this problem in a more reasonable way".

Japanese television broadcasters also reported about Bae saying that South Korean entertainers are expected to fulfill their roles as public figures, and added that they looked forward to seeing Bae carry out his mission as a civic diplomat of his country.

Bae also drew the spotlight by posting a message on the Web site of one Japanese management agency expressing his condolences to the victims of the Kyushu earthquake on March 20. "I worried a lot about your safety watching the news about the disaster. I sincerely wish that you don't suffer more damage from the earthquake and that those who had been evacuated can return to their homes as soon as possible", wrote Bae in his message.

In response, Bae's Japanese fans said they are always impressed by how their favorite actor sends the message of love to the Japanese people through his dramas and keeps helping needy people in Japan through donations and praiseworthy deeds.