Overall Highlights

• Japan has halted the H3 rocket launch due to a system anomaly, raising concerns about its space program capabilities.
• China criticizes Japan’s defense spending claims as unfounded, indicating rising tensions between the two nations.
• Japan is facing diplomatic challenges over historical grievances with South Korea, which may affect its regional relations including with China.
• China is positioning itself as a travel alternative for Chinese tourists amid ongoing tensions with Japan, highlighting economic implications of the spat.
• Both countries are navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, with Japan seeking to ease tensions while China remains assertive in its territorial claims.

China Perspective (China Sources)

• Japan’s H3 rocket launch was halted due to a system anomaly, reflecting potential weaknesses in its aerospace technology.
• Chinese Foreign Minister condemned Japan’s defense minister’s remarks on China’s military spending as ‘groundless, egregious and despicable’.
• China is experiencing a surge in travel to South Korea as a result of strained relations with Japan, indicating a shift in regional tourism dynamics.
• Chinese diplomats have repeatedly urged Japan to retract statements regarding Taiwan, emphasizing China’s stance on sovereignty issues.

Japan Perspective (Japan Sources)

• Japan’s H3 rocket launch was postponed due to a technical issue, which may impact its credibility in space exploration.
• Japan is attempting to navigate historical grievances with South Korea while managing its relationship with China, indicating a complex diplomatic landscape.
• Japanese officials are considering new taxes on electric vehicles, reflecting a focus on sustainable development amid regional tensions.
• Japan’s efforts to ease tensions with China are ongoing, but challenges remain due to China’s assertive foreign policy and territorial claims.

Sources

This summary is based on 20 articles from the following sources:

1. [en-US] Japan halts H3 rocket launch due to system anomaly - 新华网 (12/17/2025)
2. [en-US] Why South Korea is becoming China’s new bargain travel hotspot amid Japan spat - South China Morning Post (12/16/2025)
3. [en-US] Chinese FM slams Japanese defense minister’s claims on China’s military spending as ‘groundless, egregious and despicable’ - Global Times (12/16/2025)
4. [en-US] Malaysia’s dress code row, South Korea falls out with K-pop: 7 Asia highlights - South China Morning Post (12/16/2025)
5. [en-US] Japan and South Korea clash over islets as old grievances resurface - South China Morning Post (12/16/2025)
6. [en-US] UN envoy calls on Japan to retract Taiwan comments - China Daily (12/16/2025)
7. [en-US] Chinese diplomat again urges Japan to retract erroneous remarks on Taiwan - Global Times (12/15/2025)
8. [en-US] Rather than double down on her self-made crisis, Takaichi should correct her mistakes: China Daily editorial - China Daily (12/15/2025)
9. [en-US] Japan’s bid to ease tensions with China, Liu Cixin on AI: SCMP daily highlights - South China Morning Post (12/15/2025)
10. [en-US] Opinion | US global retreat shows Japan’s folly in defying China - South China Morning Post (12/15/2025)
11. [en-US] Superbank, backed by Singapore’s Grab, makes strong Indonesia listing debut - Nikkei Asia (12/17/2025)
12. [en-US] Chinese AI chip startup MetaX surges on trading debut - Nikkei Asia (12/17/2025)
13. [en-US] Indian demand for high-rises rubs up against outdated building codes - Nikkei Asia (12/17/2025)
14. [en-US] Japan officials look to levy new tax on EVs and plug-ins from 2028 - Nikkei Asia (12/16/2025)
15. [en-US] New cadre of Chinese leaders in 2026 may reshape US ties: think tank - Nikkei Asia (12/16/2025)
16. [en-US] Rapidus eyes challenge to TSMC with new AI chip tech - Nikkei Asia (12/16/2025)
17. [en-US] Xi gives Hong Kong chief positive grade, stresses sovereignty and security - Nikkei Asia (12/16/2025)
18. [en-US] China lowers EU pork tariffs in final ruling after 18-month probe - Nikkei Asia (12/16/2025)
19. [en-US] The choices Asia makes in 2026 will reset the global order - Nikkei Asia (12/16/2025)
20. [en-US] Finnish MPs in hot water over slanted-eyes gesture posts - 朝日新聞 (12/16/2025)