The purpose of this study is to present the role and the improvements in social studies education which is responsible for mitigating conflict between Korea and Japan. To this end, this study analyzed the characteristics of the Japan-related classes which are made in Korea, and proposed the improvements on the basis of the limitations revealed in the analysis. Through class analysis, the followings could be seen. First, students recognize Japan as a simplified image, not understanding it profoundly. Second, students have ambivalent feelings about Japan. Third, Japan is often described as a country in conflict with Korea. Fourth, the contents and practice focused on resolving issues between the two countries is very low. The following changes are required for the social studies to play a positive role in easing conflict between Korea and Japan. First, through International understanding education perspective, it should expand its current narrow recognition of the relationship between Korea and Japan. Second, peace education perspective needs to be applied to the process of recognizing and solving the problem which is the main cause of conflict between Korea and Japan. Third, multicultural education perspective should be strengthened so that it, in a balanced way, deals with Japanese people as neighbors, Japanese culture, as well as Japan as a nation in conflict with Korea.