​Evaluation and Prospects of Solution on Forced Mobilization

Jin, ChangSoo

(jincs@sejong.org)

Director of Center for Japanese Studies

The Sejong Institute

     On January 12, Seo Min-jung, director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Asia-Pacific Bureau, announced the government's solution at a public debate on forced mobilization. Rather than neglecting the current situation, the Yoon government aims to find a realistic solution based on the actual compensation of the victims.

     The main goal of this solution is to seek the consent of the victims by confirming victim can be reimbursed through a third-party repayment method (overlapping debt acquisition) discussed at the Public Private Council.

     In addition, the main content is that the "Foundation for Victims of Forced Mobilization by Imperial Japan" under the existing Ministry of the Interior and Safety will compensate 15 people confirmed by the three final judgments confirmed by Supreme Court.

     Considering that the purpose of the foundation is to support victims of forced mobilization, the Yoon government judged that it is appropriate for the foundation to be the main body of the solution to reduce social costs rather than replacing a new foundation or founding a separate fund.