Staff at South Korean petrol stations have begun refusing to fill up Japanese cars, escalating a trade dispute between the two countries. The move follows Tokyo's decision earlier this month to strip Seoul of a favourable trading status, which has hit South Korea's high-tech industries.
The dispute stems from a row over World War II compensation, with South Korea demanding Japanese firms compensate victims of forced labour. Japan argues that the chemicals used in South Korea's chip and smartphone production could be diverted for military use, justifying stricter export controls.
Notices urging a boycott of Japanese products have appeared in stores, and sales of Japanese beer have plummeted. Holidaymakers have cancelled trips to Japan, and cinema-goers have been urged to boycott Japanese films, including the popular anime Butt Detective The Movie.
Some petrol station owners have joined the protest, with one saying he hopes to 'scare off those interested in buying Japanese cars'. However, concerns have been raised that the boycott may harm South Korean car owners and station owners rather than the Japanese government.
Japan has defended its actions, stating that free trade does not allow the uncontrolled export of sensitive goods. South Korea's trade minister has demanded Japan drop the plan, calling it baseless and one-sided.
