Governing Transboundary Nuclear Risk in East Asia: Coordination Among Japan, China, and South Korea Over the Fukushima ALPS-Treated Water Ocean Discharge Issue

This study examines the governance challenges surrounding Japan’s decision to discharge Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS)-treated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station and the resulting international controversy in East Asia. Focusing on Japan, China, and South Korea, the analysis explores how differences in policy processes, risk perceptions, and institutional frameworks shaped diplomatic tensions and public distrust. The study analyzes the issue from three perspectives: procedural legitimacy in decision-making, social construction of risk perception, and the structure of multi-layered governance involving states, international organizations, and civil society. The findings show that, while the Japanese government emphasized the scientific safety of the discharge, there were still limitations regarding stakeholder participation, transparency, and international consultation. Divergent interpretations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) review and differences in terminology further intensified political and social tensions among the three countries. The study argues that the ALPS-treated water issue exposes structural limitations in existing nuclear safety governance frameworks. It proposes the development of a cooperative regional framework in East Asia based on transparency, joint monitoring, scientific cooperation, and improved risk communication.