Remembering the Comfort Women: A Proposed Museum
The legacy of Japan’s sexual slavery during World War II continues to leave a dark stain on the nation’s history. The so-called ‘comfort women,’ euphemistically referred to as such, were victims of unimaginable atrocities at the hands of the Japanese military. In a poignant turn of events, the House of Sharing, a residential building that once sheltered these survivors, may soon become a museum dedicated to their memory.
The House of Sharing, a symbol of hope for the survivors of Japan’s sexual slavery.
The House of Sharing, affiliated with the Buddhist Jogye Order, has been home to three surviving comfort women - 97-year-old Lee Ok-seon, 101-year-old Park Ok-seon, and 96-year-old Gang Il-chul - who have since moved to nursing homes due to their deteriorating health. With no occupants left, the facility’s operators are considering converting the building into a museum to honor the women’s experiences.
“We are thinking of leaving part of the living quarters used by them for exhibition. Since we don’t need areas like the dining hall, we could change the function of the entire building to make it a memorial hall,” said Ven. Seonghwa, president of the House of Sharing, appointed by the Jogye Order in 2022.
A Dark Legacy
The comfort women system, put in place by the Japanese military, is estimated to have victimized hundreds of thousands of women. Only eight survivors remain in South Korea, with a total of 240 registered with the government. Their stories, though painful to recall, serve as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during wartime.
A comfort woman, a symbol of resilience in the face of unimaginable cruelty.
The proposed museum would not only pay tribute to the comfort women but also provide a platform for raising awareness about this dark chapter in history. By preserving their stories, we ensure that future generations will not forget the sacrifices made by these brave women.
A Fading Memory
As the last survivors of this brutal system continue to fade away, it is essential that we take concrete steps to preserve their legacy. The comfort women museum would serve as a poignant reminder of the need for accountability and justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
A proposed museum design, honoring the memories of the comfort women.
In conclusion, the transformation of the House of Sharing into a museum would be a fitting tribute to the survivors of Japan’s sexual slavery. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that their stories are never forgotten, and that we continue to learn from the past to build a better future.
