Opposition to Jeju Naval Base Construction Intensifies

Opposition to the construction of proposed new naval base in Jeju Island in South Korea is intensifying. Though the South Korean government is touting the base as a "blue navy" port to protect South Korean waters and interests, Jeju residents and civil society organizations oppose the project, arguing that the base would bring forth additional naval arms race in the region as the U.S. will likely use it to monitor and check on the Chinese navy. They also point out that this development would counter the current image of the Jeju Island as a "peace island" that would help bring forth reconciliation and peace in Northeast Asia.