A new illustrated book, based on the works of noted Japanese author and war story model pioneer Ogawa Mimei, explores the themes of friendship amid tension between countries as depicted through the narrative of soldiers from opposing nations. Titled 'Wild Rose' (野ばら), this book has been remade by artist Hiroshi Abe, who emphasized the notion of exploring goodwill through the lens of conflict. The story contrasts the lives of an elderly soldier from a strong nation and a young soldier from a smaller country, who find themselves facing each other across the border.
Initially filled with animosity, their relationship evolves to one of camaraderie, only to be tested when war erupts between their countries. Abe reflects on the book's significance, explaining, 'This is not just about being anti-war; it's fundamentally about friendship.' He suggests the idea originated from the notion of two individuals—an old man and a young man—who, under pressure of war, can cultivate compassion and kinship.
The geographical and temporal settings for 'Wild Rose' were deliberated carefully; Abe posits the illustration of the soldiers facing each other symbolizes the tensions seen globally resembling the situation during the Napoleonic Wars through World War I. This drawn comparison highlights the illustration's role—stepping beyond the immediate Japanese narrative to encompass broader European contexts.
Simultaneously, pressing matters are seen through the conflict currently gripping the globe—the Russia-Ukraine war, which has reverberated through other regions, including East Asia. A recent editorial by the British newspaper The Guardian raised alarms over North Korean soldiers being sent to assist Russian forces, adapting quickly to modern warfare environments, particularly using drone technology. This 'real combat experience' poses significant threats as they gain practical knowledge on warfare strategies adaptable to the Korean Peninsula and surrounding areas.
Vice President of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence's Intelligence Service Vadym Skibitsky, highlighted the capacity for North Korean forces to learn new tactics from their involvement and noted, 'Initially, the North Korean military traversed the snow-laden fields as large clusters; they will likely reorganize from experience and begun learning the modern war strategies.' Interpretative threats posed by this development have heightened concerns about future conflicts on the Korean Peninsula.
Japanese journalist Takashi Hirano, stationed in Ukraine since 2008, substantiates this narrative on the ground. Upon witnessing the onset of the Russian invasion, Hirano decided to stay within Ukraine 'to relay the harsh truths of this war,' establishing his commitment to documenting the complicity of daily life amid upheaval. Through his recent book release detailing the realities of life during war, he provides readers insight on how the Ukrainian public strives to maintain normal life under catastrophe, sharing the pressure to remain stoic even when future forecasts remain bleak.
Hirano noted particularly complex feelings among the populace, 'Many individuals might want peace, but they live under constant threat of renewed conflicts. The thought of losing territory or security to Russia creates deep-rooted anxiety about what the future holds.' He elaborated on the perspective shared by many combatants who perceive the end of war as futile if weapons are rearranged and ready to reengage.
Looking closer to home, Hirano articulated his stern belief about the geopolitical parallels between South Korea and Ukraine, each historically scarred by larger powers. 'Both nations understand what it means to be caught between empires. The collective trauma of war should resonate deeply and this connection can allow for greater empathy among the populations,' he stated, expressing hope for stronger, supportive actions toward Ukraine from countries like South Korea.
Rounding up the reflections on Japan and its cultural take on peace and warfare, Hirano and Abe’s works send strong messages about relationships built on mutual respect, transcending national boundaries even under the spectre of war. They impart lessons worth reflecting upon, particularly as the world grapples with conflict on multiple fronts today.