Ocean Literacy—In the Context of Naming of Seas: Case Study: The Sea Between Korea and Japan

Abstract

Oceans and seas, which border on different states, often have different names in the respective languages. In these cases, riparian countries may have different views as to what name is most appropriate for use on international maps and in international publications. An example is the sea between Korea, Russia, and Japan. It was, until the end of the twentieth century, a common feature on most maps worldwide to name this sea “Sea of Japan.” Since Korea’s admission to the UN, however, the question concerning an internationally recognized name for the sea has been brought up repeatedly for discussion by Korean officials. By broadening the spectrum of the topic to non-STEM-aspects, ocean literacy can get access to curricula of social-science disciplines and can expand their reach. The discussion on the international name of the sea between Korea and Japan is connected to multifaceted matters and can, therefore, contribute to enhancing the understanding of ocean-related issues.