former comfort women

Former comfort women refer to individuals who were forced into sexual slavery during World War II by the Imperial Japanese Army and its collaborators. They were recruited from occupied countries, including Korea, China, and other parts of Asia, and were transported to brothels (known as 'comfort stations') where they were coerced into sexual servitude for the Japanese soldiers. This systematic practice of sexual slavery lasted from 1932 until the end of World War II in 1945. Despite numerous testimonies and evidence, Japan officially denied responsibility for these atrocities until 2015 when it issued a formal apology and compensation fund was established. However, the issue remains contentious as surviving former comfort women continue to advocate for justice, reparations, and recognition of Japan's historical responsibilities.