Introduction to Permanent Exhibition 

Chapter 2: Where the Past Meets the Present

The Halmonis’ pasts have yet to reconcile with the present. Together, let’s look into the past and see what we are doing today to overcome it.

The History Room 1: The Japanese Military Sexual Slavery System

Through the display of Japanese military documents and relevant resources, this exhibit reveals the truth of the Japanese military sexual slavery issue. The exhibit examines the reality of Japanese military sexual slavery as an organized and systematic state crime, along with the painful experiences of the victims in comfort stations and in the post-war context.

The History Room 2: Examining Japan's Systematic State Crime

From the 1930s to the defeat of Japan in 1945, the Japanese military systematically established "military comfort stations” and mobilized women from the occupied areas and colonial women in its colonies as sexual slaves. The Japanese military referred to these women as "comfort women”; the reality, however, was organized rape, far from the term "comfort."

The History Room 3: The Reality of Japanese "Comfort Stations"

Houses in areas designated by the Japanese military were frequently used as “comfort stations.” Because many rooms were needed, school buildings or temples were sometimes used as well. In times of battle, women were also raped in caves or air raid shelters. 

Inside the “comfort stations,” there were usually objects such as bedding or a mattress, or a basin for washing, in small rooms divided by partitions. The closer to the frontlines of battle they were, the harsher and rougher the stations’ conditions were. 

Over time, some of the women stayed in one “comfort station” throughout, while others followed units along battle lines or were moved to units without established “comfort stations” near the frontline

The History Room 4: After Liberation

Under strict surveillance and control, the “comfort women” had to deal with as many as dozens of soldiers a day. The victims endured abuse, torture, and were even coerced to commit suicide by soldiers. Women who remained in “comfort stations” at the end of the war once again faced a harsh fate with Japan’s defeat. According to victims’ testimonies, many of them were forced to commit suicide, mass murdered, or abandoned in the “comfort stations.”

The History of the Movement 1: Breaking the Silence 

Nearly fifty years had passed since the end of WWII, yet the Japanese military “comfort women” issue remained hidden in the shadows of history. As the survivors began breaking the silence forced onto them, a new chapter of history revealing the truth of the past began. This exhibit traces the footsteps of activism seeking to address the Japanese military sexual slavery issue. Through the displays and videos here, you can witness the movement’s legal battles and transnational activity, and experience the continuing Wednesday Demonstrations. You can also see the Statue of Peace erected on Peace Road in front of the Japanese embassy in Seoul.

The History of the Movement 2: Punish Those Responsible

Although the Japanese government's involvement had become increasingly evident, it continued to rely only on makeshift measures without fully acknowledging its responsibility or fulfilling its legal obligations, prompting a wide range of responsive actions.

The History of the Movement 3: Building Hope Through Solidarity 

The movement to resolve the issue of the Japanese military “comfort women” expanded beyond supporting survivors to encompass efforts for historical redress and peacebuilding. It further developed into a transnational solidarity movement to end violence against women across borders, extending beyond Korea or even Asia.

The History of the Movement 4: The Wednesday Demonstrations

The Wednesday Demonstrations began on January 8, 1992, in front of the Japanese Embassy in Korea, prompted by former Japanese Prime Minister Miyazawa's visit to Korea. The protest began as an effort to urge the Japanese government to address the issue of Japanese military sexual slavery and to express our determination to persist until the issue is resolved. The weekly protest, which began with merely about ten women participants including those from The Korean Council, met its 1000th occurrence on December 14, 2011. Throughout those years, the demonstration has transformed into an open space for women's rights and peace through the participation of citizens. Survivors of Japanese military sexual slavery have been on the front lines, the Korean Council has organized the protests, and various groups including Korean Council members, feminist groups, civil society groups, religious groups, and citizens have participated. 

The Wednesday Demonstration has become a space for history education, for calling for peace and women’s rights, and for victims and citizens to stand in solidarity. Transcending borders, ideologies, generations, and genders, it also stands as the result of transnational solidarity in the pursuit of justice. Every Wednesday at noon, the Wednesday Demonstration continues to be held in front of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul.

The Lives of ‘Comfort Women’ Survivors

Using the touchscreen, you can take a closer look at photographs, news articles, and video testimonies that document the lives of 30 survivors.  

Halmonis' Belongings 

Along with a panel showing records of their victimization, including dates and regions at which they were taken, this exhibit displays halmonis’ belongings carrying the imprints of their lives.

The Wall of Donors

The list of donors who became the foundation for the establishment of the War and Women's Human Rights Museum is engraved on the central wall of the second floor. The names of about 7,500 people are engraved on this wall. These include approximately 5,600 Korean individuals,  400 Korean organizations, and around 1,500 individuals and organizations from abroad who contributed to the Museum’s founding. In particular, there are around 1,400 Japanese individuals and organizations on this donor list.

Memorial Hall

The surface of the wall displays the faces and dates of death of the victims who have passed away. Victims who were unable to leave behind their names or faces are represented by black bricks to allow for collective remembrance. This is a space where you can lay flowers in tribute or also donate to fund the restocking of flowers for future visitors.