Read, Watch or Listen

Japan defended its stance on wartime sexual slavery, rejecting South Korean court rulings ordering compensation as violations of international law. This followed criticism from UN investigators for Japan's failure to provide truth and reparations to victims. South Korea urged Japan to acknowledge its history and comply with court orders. Both countries submitted responses to the UN, highlighting their continuing disagreement despite efforts to improve bilateral relations. Japan maintains that compensation issues were settled by past agreements, while South Korea argues that sovereign immunity doesn't apply to crimes against humanity. The dispute underscores lingering tensions despite recent attempts at reconciliation.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.