South Korea Commemorates 35th Anniversary of 'Comfort Woman' Survivor's Testimony

Thirty-five years ago, on August 14, 1991, Kim Hak-soon broke decades of silence, becoming the first survivor to publicly testify about her forced sexual servitude as a "comfort woman" for the Japanese military during World War II. Her courageous act paved the way for other survivors to share their harrowing experiences.

On August 14, South Korea marked the "Day of Remembrance for Victims of Japanese Military Sexual Slavery." A ceremony in Seoul honored the survivors' bravery, emphasizing the transition from their "courageous testimony" to "steps toward peace." The event featured performances and reflections on the victims' lives and struggles, including testimonies from survivors like Lee Ok-seon and Hwang Geum-ju.

This year's commemoration holds particular significance as it is the first held since new legal protections were enacted, specifically prohibiting defamation and the spread of false information concerning the victims. The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family stated the event aims to remember the truth revealed by the victims' testimonies and to carry that legacy forward into future generations' efforts for human rights and peace.

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I couldn't speak out for so long out of fear. But as it is a historical fact that must be revealed someday, I decided to speak. I feel relieved. Even now, whenever I see the Japanese flag, I feel wronged and my heart trembles. When I hear the Japanese government denying the existence of wartime comfort women on TV or in newspapers, I feel devastated. I even feel like suing Japan.