On the Historic Albeit Imperfect Agreement between Korea and Japan on “Comfort Women”

Today’s joint agreement by the Republic of Korea and Japan on the issue of the “comfort woman,” is far from perfect; but it is indeed, an historic milestone, a step in the right direction, and one which I sincerely hope, will finally restore the dignity and honor of the 200,000 girls and women who were sexually enslaved during World War II.

In 2015 alone, nine Korean “comfort woman” passed away; they passed away without seeing the light and hope of this agreement. Thousands more passed away across the Asia-Pacific region without a promise of closure, justice, or peace.

Recognizing the surviving grandmothers have such a short amount of time on this earth, and recognizing the significance of the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between Korea and Japan, the two countries have addressed a hard fought issue that required a much needed resolution.

I am deeply disappointed this agreement lacks a commitment by Japan to ensure they will no longer whitewash history and educate future generations. Only by educating our future generations, can we commit to upholding the human rights of all, and ensuring the wrongs of history will never repeat. I urge Prime Minister Abe and the Government of Japan to fully commit to this education — and ensure this atrocity never happens, ever again. I am also disappointed this apology is not a formal, and official apology issued by the Japanese Diet.

At the same time, I am hopeful in the promise that Japan will be held accountable to implementing the agreement according to the spirit of its principles- in the eyes of Korea, the global community, and most importantly, the survivors.

The sexual enslavement of girls and women during World War II is the ultimate example of continued violation against women and children during times of conflict and humanitarian crises. Violence against women is a crime — a crime against humanity. Whether against the Yezidi children and women, or the vulnerable population following a natural disaster, such violence must stop.

I have been honored to fight and be a voice for these women, during the past 20 years. I have shed tears and meals with these survivors. While their pain and suffering are unimaginable, their courage and spirit are boundless. I hope with all my heart, these grandmothers will finally find peace.