독도, also known as Liancourt Rocks, is a group of small islets located in the Sea of Japan. It is situated between the Korean Peninsula and Japan and is known for its rugged terrain and rich marine life. The islets cover an area of about 0.2 square kilometers and are uninhabited, except for a small number of South Korean officials and a lighthouse. The sovereignty of 독도 is a contentious issue between South Korea and Japan. South Korea administers the islets and maintains a small police detachment there, while Japan claims them as part of its territory. The dispute has historical roots and continues to be a sensitive topic in both countries.