During World War II, Japan’s “comfort women” system subjected hundreds of thousands of women to unimaginable suffering through forced sexual slavery. This dark chapter in history remains a poignant reminder of the atrocities of war and the ongoing fight for justice. Below, we explore five critical facts about this horrific practice, shedding light on the victims’ stories and their enduring quest for recognition.

 

Note: This article contains sensitive content related to war crimes and sexual violence.

 

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1. “Comfort Women” Were Victims of Sexual Slavery

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The term “comfort women” is a euphemism for the women and girls coerced into sexual slavery by the Japanese military during World War II. These women were forced to serve in “comfort stations” established across Japanese-occupied territories. Far from voluntary, most victims were abducted, deceived, or coerced into these facilities, where they endured systemic rape and abuse. This practice was a deliberate part of Japan’s wartime strategy, targeting women in occupied regions to “serve” soldiers.

 

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2. An Estimated 400,000 Women Were Enslaved

Historians estimate that at least 400,000 women were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese military during the war. The scale of this operation was staggering, with “comfort stations” set up across Asia and beyond. The victims ranged in age, with many being teenagers or young women, stripped of their dignity and subjected to unimaginable horrors.

 

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3. Victims Came from Multiple Countries

The women enslaved in the “comfort women” system were primarily from countries invaded or occupied by Japan, including China, the Korean Peninsula, the Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, and the Netherlands. Approximately 200,000 of these women—half of the total—were from China alone. Other victims included women from Indonesia, Taiwan, and even some Japanese women from marginalized communities. This widespread targeting reflects the imperialist reach of Japan during WWII.

 

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4. Horrific Conditions and High Mortality Rates

The conditions in “comfort stations” were dehumanizing and brutal. Women endured repeated rape, physical beatings, torture, and starvation. Many were held captive in cramped, unsanitary facilities, with little to no medical care. Estimates suggest that up to 90% of these women did not survive the ordeal, succumbing to disease, malnutrition, or suicide driven by unbearable trauma. Those who survived carried lifelong physical and psychological scars.

 

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5. The Fight for Justice Continues

Decades after the war, survivors and advocates are still seeking a formal apology and legal reparations from the Japanese government. While Japan has issued statements of regret, many survivors and their supporters argue that these fall short of acknowledging full responsibility. The issue remains a point of contention in international relations, particularly between Japan and countries like South Korea and China. The #LastDaughters movement continues to amplify the voices of surviving “comfort women,” ensuring their stories are not forgotten.

 

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Why This History Matters Today

The “comfort women” system is not just a historical tragedy but a reminder of the ongoing need to address war crimes and advocate for survivors of sexual violence. By understanding this history, we honor the resilience of the victims and support their fight for justice. Organizations like the Research Center for Chinese “Comfort Women” at Shanghai Normal University continue to document these stories, ensuring that the truth endures.

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By sharing these facts, we contribute to preserving the memory of the “comfort women” and supporting their quest for justice. Let’s continue to educate and advocate for a world free from such atrocities.