‘...of course I know it’s unlikely Japan would beat N. Korea - but just an example...’
I’ve lived in Japan and I’ve traveled in Korea - including the border area. I wouldn’t bet a dime on the Norks in a war vs. Japan.
Japan would KICK the North Korean’s asses, pave them over as a glass parking lot, and be back in time for supper.
So, you think the Japanese still have it in them as warriors.
When I was in Saigon I was wondering the same thing about the Viet Cong. Nowadays, their job is to hang around and protect the embassies, they look 17 or 18 years old, same pea green uniforms and texting and playing games on their cell phones. They are good for giving them the camera to take your picture riding in a cyclo though.
Different generation for sure. But then again look at their neighbors. Thailand. I mean, how much of a warrior do you have to be these days with Thailand as your neighbor and a bunch of ladyboy soldiers coming after you.
Vietnam's main concerns right now anyways is Malaysia (the Islamists) and China. That's what worries them these days.