Sinu Je

How do we reconcile a nation’s victimhood with its history of aggression? As we remember the devastating impact of events like the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a crucial question arises: What about the injustices Japan inflicted during its colonial occupation of Korea (and other Asian countries)? While Japan’s suffering during World War II is well-documented and commemorated, the stories of the Korean “comfort women” and forced laborers remain overshadowed and often dismissed. Can true reconciliation be achieved without a full acknowledgment and reckoning of these painful historical realities? 

The history of the Japanese occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945 is marred by grievous violations of human rights. Among the most painful aspects of this history is the plight of the “comfort women” — a term used to describe the tens of thousands of Korean women who were coerced into sexual slavery by the Japanese military. Despite overwhelming evidence and testimonies from survivors, Japan has failed to offer a sincere apology or adequate reparations. Instead, there has been a troubling trend of historical revisionism within Japanese education and politics.

Many Japanese textbooks and official narratives have downplayed or outright denied the atrocities committed during the occupation. This distortion of history not only dishonors the memories of the victims but also perpetuates ignorance and misunderstanding among future generations. Some even go so far as to portray the comfort women as willing participants, seeking financial gain. This gross misrepresentation is a cruel injustice to the survivors and their families, who have long sought recognition and redress.

While it is important to acknowledge the suffering Japan endured, particularly the devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, it is equally crucial to hold the nation accountable for its role as a colonizer. The focus on Japan’s victimhood often overshadows the experiences of those who suffered under its imperialist policies. Unlike Germany, which has made significant efforts to atone for its actions during World War II, Japan has yet to fully confront its past. This lack of accountability not only hampers reconciliation with Korea but also undermines Japan’s moral standing on the global stage.

As an advocate for justice, I urge Japan to take meaningful steps toward acknowledging and rectifying its historical wrongs. This includes providing a genuine apology to the victims of forced labor, sexual slavery, and other atrocities, as well as incorporating a truthful account of these events into the country’s educational curricula. By doing so, Japan can demonstrate a commitment to truth and reconciliation, paving the way for a more honest and just future.

Moreover, it is essential for the international community to support and amplify the voices of the survivors. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the consequences of unchecked aggression and the importance of historical accountability. In our quest for a more equitable world, we must ensure that justice is served, not only for the victims of Japan’s colonial past but for all who have suffered under similar circumstances.

In conclusion, the path to true reconciliation requires a sincere acknowledgment of past wrongs and a commitment to making amends. Only through this process can we hope to heal the wounds of history and build a future based on mutual respect and understanding. It is time for Japan to confront its past with honesty and integrity, and for the world to stand in solidarity with those who continue to seek justice.

Sinu Je is a pastor at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church in Marblehead.