Japan and South Korea have an important relationship, but it's going through a rough patch. Historical issues and territorial disputes have overshadowed general sentiment. July 22nd marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties. We look at the development of the ties, and touch on views to solve weakening relations.

NHK World's Hiroki Yajima joins Aki Shibuya and Sho Beppu in the studio. He's spent years covering the Korean Peninsula.

Peace Memorial Park is a place that was built by the will of local residents. 70 years ago, many people, not just soldiers but also civilians, found themselves trapped in the area, near the southern tip of Okinawa. In fact it is a place where thousands of civilians lost their lives. Some dived off cliffs to kill themselves. Others committed suicide with hand grenades.