A proposal to erect a statue in Auckland commemorating women coerced into sexual slavery during World War II has sparked concern from the Japanese Embassy, which warns it could significantly impact diplomatic relations.
Statue Proposal Divides Opinion
The proposed bronze statue, offered by the Korean Council for Justice and Remembrance, aims to honor survivors of wartime sexual violence. The design depicts a seated girl next to an empty chair, mirroring a Statue of Peace originally installed in Seoul, South Korea, in 2011.
Auckland Council received 672 submissions on the proposal during a three-week feedback period in January. 57% of submissions opposed the statue, while 43% were in favor. 36% of responses came from the Japanese community and 34% from the South Korean community.
Supporters of the statue argue it would “honour the courage and resilience of survivors, promote peace and remembrance and support human rights education,” according to the Auckland Council proposal. The Refugee Women’s Council of Latest Zealand submitted that a public symbol of acceptance would help diverse communities experience included.
Opponents, including Japanese Ambassador to New Zealand Makoto Osawa, expressed concerns about potential community division and whether a public park is an appropriate location. Ambassador Osawa warned the statue could negatively affect relations between Japan and New Zealand, as well as between people and governments in both countries.
Ambassador Osawa similarly noted that a $75,000 grant from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in 2015 for the Korean Cultural Garden could be seen as implicit support for the statue’s installation. The Japanese government maintains it has been “earnestly addressing” issues related to comfort women with South Korea for over 30 years, pointing to a 2015 agreement and an NZD$11 million payment to a Reconciliation and Healing Foundation.
However, the Japanese government has admitted women and girls suffered during wartime but denies they were taken against their will for sexual slavery. Similar statue installations have previously led to diplomatic tensions between Japan and other nations, including the US, Germany, and Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the proposed statue?
The statue is intended to memorialize tens of thousands of women who were coerced into sexual slavery before and during World War II.
What is the Japanese Embassy’s concern regarding the statue?
The Japanese Embassy has warned that the statue could have a “significant impact” on diplomatic relations between Japan and New Zealand, and potentially cause division within New Zealand’s communities.
What was the public response to the proposal?
Auckland Council received 672 submissions, with 57% opposed and 43% in favor. 36% of responses came from the Japanese community and 34% from the South Korean community.
Given the strong opinions on both sides, what role should public art play in acknowledging difficult historical events?
