The Koza riot was a defining expression of Okinawan resistance to 25 years of US military occupation, foreshadowing eventual reversion to Japanese sovereignty.
Key Facts
- Date
- Night of December 20–21, 1970
- Okinawan participants
- ~5,000 people
- US military police present
- ~700 officers
- Injured (Americans)
- ~60 people
- Injured (Okinawans)
- ~27 people
- Vehicles burned
- ~80 cars
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
After 25 years of US military administration, deep resentment had built among Okinawans over base-related incidents and the unequal legal status of US servicemen. The immediate trigger was a drunk-driving incident in which a US serviceman struck an Okinawan man, igniting long-suppressed public anger.
On the night of December 20, 1970, approximately 5,000 Okinawans clashed with around 700 US military police in Koza. Rioters burned roughly 80 American cars, stormed Kadena Air Base, and destroyed or heavily damaged several base buildings. US military police deployed tear gas; around 60 Americans and 27 Okinawans were injured.
The riot became symbolic of Okinawan opposition to US military presence and strengthened the movement for reversion to Japanese sovereignty, which was achieved in 1972. It drew international attention to the political tensions stemming from the continued US military footprint on the island.
Political Outcome
The riot underscored widespread Okinawan opposition to US military administration and accelerated political momentum toward reversion to Japanese sovereignty, achieved in 1972.
Okinawa under US military administration since 1945
Increased pressure leading to reversion of Okinawa to Japan in 1972