President Lee Jae-myung Issues Historic Apology in Japan, Confronting Painful Past
Tokyo, Japan – August 23, 2025 – In a groundbreaking moment for inter-Korean relations, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has delivered a powerful apology in Japan for the suffering endured by Koreans under Japanese rule and during periods of political turmoil. This unprecedented gesture, made during a Korean-Japanese luncheon in Tokyo, marks the first time a South Korean president has directly addressed these sensitive historical issues on Japanese soil. This is a breaking news development with significant implications for regional stability and future cooperation. This article is optimized for Google News and SEO to provide you with the fastest, most accurate updates.
A First-of-Its-Kind Visit and a Solemn Acknowledgement
President Lee, speaking at the luncheon, stated, “It is the first time in history that the president of the Republic of Korea visited the first Japan as a quantum visiting country.” He went on to express deep remorse, saying, “I apologize once again, saying, ‘I apologize for the victims of the victims and family members who have been sacrificed to Korea’s national violence as the president of the Republic of Korea.’” The apology specifically addressed the victims of “spy manipulation” – a reference to instances where Koreans were falsely accused and persecuted – and the tragic fate of Korean residents in Japan, including the devastating events surrounding the Arakawa River.
Remembering the Sacrifices: From Sunguk to the IMF Crisis
President Lee didn’t just focus on past wrongs. He also honored the contributions of Korean compatriots who supported Japan during times of need. “The people who were especially used when they recalled the sublime sacrifice of Sunguk in the last 80 years were in Japan,” he noted. He further highlighted the support provided during the 1988 Seoul Olympics and the 1997 IMF financial crisis, stating, “Even during the 1988 Seoul Olympics and the IMF foreign exchange crisis, we took off every historical hump and helped the whole country.” This acknowledgement underscores a complex history of both conflict and cooperation.
The Shadow of the Past: Spy Manipulation and the Arakawa River Massacre
The reference to “spy manipulation” alludes to a dark chapter in Korean history, where individuals were falsely accused of espionage, often leading to imprisonment, torture, and even death. This practice, fueled by political tensions and mistrust, left deep scars on Korean communities. Similarly, the mention of the Arakawa River carries immense weight. The Arakawa River massacre, occurring in the aftermath of the Great Kantō earthquake of 1923, saw the brutal killing of thousands of Koreans by vigilante groups and authorities, fueled by xenophobia and false rumors. The remains of many victims were never recovered, leaving families with enduring grief and a demand for justice.
A Path Forward: Building Trust and Reconciliation
President Lee’s commitment to remembering these tragedies is coupled with a pledge to honor the memory of those lost. “We will never forget the terrible history of the Arakawa River, and we will never forget the souls of the remains scattered around Japan without returning to our hometown,” he declared. “I promise to do it.” This visit and apology are seen as a crucial step towards building a more trusting and cooperative relationship between South Korea and Japan. Following the luncheon, President Lee is scheduled to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishoba to discuss a range of issues, including economic cooperation, security concerns, and ongoing efforts to address historical grievances.
This historic moment isn’t just about acknowledging the past; it’s about forging a future where such tragedies are never repeated. President Lee’s willingness to confront difficult truths and offer a sincere apology sets a powerful precedent for regional diplomacy and demonstrates a commitment to healing old wounds. Stay tuned to Archyde for continued coverage of the Korea-Japan summit and its lasting impact on the geopolitical landscape.
