Background
Arguably, no two countries in Asia are connected in the consciousness of the world quite like Japan and North Korea. Japan is a global powerhouse with the third largest GDP, while North Korea is one of the world’s most isolated and extreme dictatorships. Although these two countries are diametrically opposed in many ways, many people often debate who would win should these two ever face off in a conflict. To assess this question fairly and accurately, one must examine the current state of both countries and the different variables that could come into play.
Japan’s Economic and Military Advantage
When talking about economic and military might, Japan clearly has the upper hand. Japan’s GDP is more than 20 times that of North Korea, which allows them to compete with the most powerful nations on Earth from a financial standpoint. Likewise, Japan’s military spending is much greater than North Korea’s. The Japanese Self-Defense Force is currently the eighth largest in the world and is revamping its military structures and capabilities in response to growing instability in East Asia. Japan also has a powerful navy, which could be used to help in any conflict against North Korea.
North Korea’s Domestic Capability and Deterrents
Despite its meager economic and military standings, North Korea has still managed to develop a powerful nuclear program which they are in the process of expanding. They claim to possess thermonuclear bombs, which would likely be used as a deterrent if Japan were to attempt to challenge them militarily. North Korea has also demonstrated a willingness to resort to extreme tactics in the face of adversaries, such as assassinating members of high-profile regimes.
Internal Stability
When evaluating the two countries’ abilities to sustain a prolonged conflict, Japan certainly has the edge. Japan is a stable democracy, meaning its citizens are largely united behind their leadership. In contrast, North Korea is a dystopia where everyday life is filled with fear and oppression. Any conflict between the two countries could deplete the morale of North Korea’s people and military, potentially leading to a quick capitulation.
Regional Influence
In terms of regional influence, North Korea is increasingly become isolated while Japan’s influence is growing. Japan has revitalized and expanded its regional alliances and trade partnerships, while North Korea has become increasingly antagonistic with its neighbors. These alliances could play an important role in any possible conflict, with Japan counting on its allies to support it while North Korea would likely be left to go it alone.
Technology
When it comes to technology, Japan is the clear leader. Japan has developed world-leading technology in many different industries and has a well-trained and educated population. North Korea, on the other hand, has lagged behind in terms of technological advancement and research. This could be a major factor in any conflict between the two countries, as Japan may be able to leverage its technological edge to outmaneuver and outlast North Korea.
Geography
Japan’s geographical position could also prove to be an important factor in a conflict, as North Korea is much farther away from potential allies and is surrounded by unfavorable geography. This could limit North Korea’s ability to launch an attack on Japan or to defend against one. Additionally, Japan has a powerful navy which could be used to blockade North Korea and prevent it from receiving reinforcements or supplies.
Outcome
Given all the factors discussed, it’s clear that Japan would have the overwhelming advantage if a conflict between these two countries were to occur. Japan has the financial, military, technological, and geographical clout to be able to outlast and overpower North Korea in any conflict. They also have the internal stability and regional strength to be able to sustain a prolonged conflict, making them a formidable opponent for any nation.
Japan’s Military and Defense System
Japan’s advanced defense system has played an important role in their ability to defend themselves against any potential threats. The Japanese Self-Defense Force is the eighth-largest armed force in the world, with a wide range of capabilities ranging from air power to naval power. Japan also has a powerful missile defense system that has been designed to protect the homeland from any potential attack. This system is currently undergoing further upgrades and expansion as issues with North Korea become more of a concern.
North Korea’s Military and Defense System
North Korea’s military is much less advanced than Japan’s, although it is still significant. The Korean People’s Army is the fourth-largest in the world and is trained to be extremely ferocious and determined in the face of adversity. However, their lack of technological sophistication and aging equipment often leave them at a disadvantage. North Korea also lacks a powerful missile defense system, which could prove to be a deadly mistake in a war with Japan as the latter could overwhelm their conventional forces with air and naval power.
Japan’s Alliances and Diplomatic Relationships
Japan has perhaps one of the strongest and most influential diplomatic relationships in the world. They are currently a member of the United Nations, the G7, the G20, APEC, East Asia Summit, and a number of other important organizations. This gives Japan a powerful network of allies who could rally to their side in the event of a conflict. Japan also maintains strong relations with many Asian nations, including South Korea and China, which further strengthens their diplomatic clout.
North Korea’s Relationships
In stark contrast, North Korea has very few diplomatic relationships and many of their allies have become increasingly wary of their actions. China is currently North Korea’s only consistent ally and diplomatic supporter and even then the relationship is strained. This leaves North Korea in a very precarious position and greatly reduces the chances of any outside support in the event of a conflict.
Conclusion
Given the current state of both countries, an unbiased assessment would be that Japan would come out on top in a conflict between them and North Korea. Japan has a strong economic and military infrastructure, reliable allies, and a stable population, all of which would be crucial in any conflict. North Korea’s stance is also notably weakened by a lack of allies and outdated technology. Ultimately, any conflict between these two countries would be in Japan’s favor and North Korea would face an uphill battle to survive.
