Japan’s government on Monday issued a formal response to recent criticism from United Nations investigators regarding the issue of wartime sexual slavery. Officials asserted that South Korean court decisions mandating compensation from Japan are not in line with international legal norms.
The UN investigators had previously voiced concerns about Japan’s approach to addressing the matter. They highlighted a perceived deficiency in efforts to uncover the truth surrounding the issue and provide adequate reparations to the victims.
Japanese officials, in their statement, emphasized their belief that the matter was resolved under the 1965 treaty between Japan and South Korea. They argued that the subsequent South Korean court rulings undermine this agreement and established international legal principles.
The government reiterated its commitment to supporting victims through existing programs and initiatives. However, they maintained that these programs are sufficient and that further compensation through court orders is unwarranted and legally unsound.
The UN report detailed several instances where victims’ accounts were allegedly disregarded or dismissed. Investigators pointed to a lack of transparency and a failure to engage meaningfully with survivors and their representatives in the process of truth-seeking and reconciliation.
This latest statement from Japan is expected to further strain relations with South Korea, which has consistently pushed for greater accountability from Japan regarding the issue. The differing interpretations of the 1965 treaty and international law continue to be a significant point of contention between the two nations.
Experts on international law are divided on the legal merits of the South Korean court rulings. Some argue that the rulings are justified given the gravit
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