1957년 오키나와총궐기대회를 기점으로 일본 본토에서의 오키나와 일본복귀 담론의 형성 과정: 남방동포원호회(南方同胞援護会)의 발행 잡지를 중심으로 = The formation process of the discourse on the return of Okinawa to Japan from the Japanese mainland, starting from the Okinawa Shimagurumi Struggle in 1957. -Focusing on the publications of Nanpō Dōhō Engokai-

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study aims to examine the formation process of the discourse regarding Japan's return to Okinawa in 1972. Specifically, it focuses on the development of the discourse in mainland Japan in connection with the decision for Okinawa's return through negotiations between the US and Japan. It particularly intends to shed light on the significant influence of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the collective pursuit of interests between the LDP and the former powerful factions in Okinawa. To verify this hypothesis, the study reviewed the flow of early editorials in a magazine published by the Southern Brethren Support Society, established by the institutional nature of the LDP regime. The discourse surrounding Okinawa's return to Japan after World War II played a significant role in the mainland's perception. It was driven by the Liberal Democratic Party's determination to reclaim both southern, including Okinawa, and northern territories. Simultaneously, the discussions among intellectuals from Okinawa, aiming to maintain the essence of Japanese life within the mainland, formed a vital part of the discourse on Japan's reintegration. Moreover, the fundamental premise of "restoring Okinawa's administrative rights while retaining US military bases" significantly aligned with the US-Japan agreement on Okinawa's return. This alignment implies that the decision wasn't merely a quick consensus but rather a complex process. Okinawa's return played a pivotal role in resolving a long-standing territorial issue before the conclusion of the treaty, maintaining the nuclear umbrella amidst the unpredictable international Cold War context, ultimately fortifying the 55-year regime.