Legal Definitions - nation-state

A nation-state is a sovereign political entity where the majority of its citizens share a common national identity, such as a shared culture, language, or ethnic origin, and this national group governs itself within a defined territory. In essence, it's a state whose political boundaries largely coincide with the cultural or ethnic boundaries of a particular nation, with the government often seen as representing and serving this specific national group.

• Japan

  Japan is frequently cited as a prime example of a nation-state. Its population is remarkably homogeneous, with an overwhelming majority identifying as ethnically Japanese, sharing a common language, distinct cultural traditions, and a unified historical narrative. The Japanese government exercises sovereign control over its archipelago, and its political institutions are deeply intertwined with and designed to represent this singular national identity. The state's existence is fundamentally linked to the Japanese nation.

• France

  While France has a diverse population, it embodies the concept of a nation-state through its strong emphasis on a unified French national identity. This identity is built upon shared civic values, a common language (French), and a collective history, rather than solely on ethnicity. The French state has historically played a significant role in fostering and promoting this singular national culture, often assimilating regional differences into a broader French identity. The government's policies consistently reinforce the idea of a unified French nation, making its political boundaries largely congruent with this constructed national group.

• South Korea

  The Republic of Korea, commonly known as South Korea, is another clear illustration of a nation-state. The vast majority of its citizens identify as ethnically Korean, sharing a common language, a rich cultural heritage, and a long, distinct history. The South Korean government is a sovereign entity that governs this population within its defined borders. The state's institutions, educational system, and cultural policies actively reinforce and celebrate this specific Korean national identity, demonstrating a strong alignment between the nation (the Korean people) and the state (the Republic of Korea).