South Korea’s presidential office has committed to defending South Korean businesses from foreign pressures in response to Japan’s administrative guidance urging Line Yahoo Corporation (LY Corp.) to reassess its financial dependence on Naver following last year’s data breach. South Korean lawmakers perceive Japan’s move as Tokyo’s effort to limit foreign influence in its tech sector.

Democratic Party (DP) floor leader Park Chan-dae criticized the Yoon administration’s handling of Japan’s actions, warning that a lackluster response could be perceived as “treasonous.” Sung Tae-yoon, the director of national policy at the presidential office, told reporters that framing the issue in an anti-Japanese manner damages national interests and fails to protect Korean corporations.