North Korea Abandons Claims to Takeshima in 2025 Map Publication

North Korea's 2025 map and accompanying book do not list Takeshima, a group of islets claimed by both North and South Korea, as its territory. This omission suggests a potential shift in Pyongyang's stance regarding its sovereignty claim over the islets. The change is linked to constitutional reforms that have redefined the country's territorial claims, excluding the southern part of the Korean Peninsula and Takeshima. The map and book were published in October and December 2025, respectively, and are seen as official materials for foreign audiences. The islets, known as Dokdo in South Korea, have been a point of contention between Japan and Korea, with South Korea maintaining a security presence there since 1954. This development follows North Korea's recent policy shifts, which have characterized South Korea as an enemy since late 2023. The last mention of Takeshima in North Korean media was in January 2024.

Key Points: • North Korea's 2025 map excludes Takeshima, indicating a shift in territorial claims. • The omission aligns with constitutional reforms that redefine North Korea's territory. • Takeshima has been a longstanding point of dispute between Japan and Korea.