The South Korean government has expressed deep regret over a rally in Tokyo Wednesday attended by high-ranking Japanese government officials and politicians where claims were made of Japanese sovereignty over the Dokdo islets.

South Korea's Foreign Ministry spokesman said South Korea will maintain its stance on Dokdo and stressed that Japan’s move will only impose an unnecessary burden on the two countries’ relations.

The South Korean government called on Japan to give up its undue territorial claims over the islets and urged Tokyo to become a responsible partner so the two countries can establish future-oriented ties.