In a landmark decision in November 2024, South Korea’s Supreme Court upheld the conviction of Yoon Mee-hyang, the former leader of an advocacy group representing comfort women, for embezzlement and sentenced her to 18 months in prison, suspended for three years. Yoon’s case has been under the international spot light, highlighting, serious concerns over the misuse and abuse of funds intended to support survivors of wartime abuse during Japan’s colonial rule of Korea (1910-1945). This ruling adds another layer of complexity to the already contentious comfort women issue, particularly in the context of Japan-South Korea relations.
Details of the Case
Yoon Mee-hyang, who led the Korean Council for Justice and Remembrance for the Issues of Military Sexual Slavery by Japan (Jungdaehyup), was indicted in 2020 on charges of fraud and embezzlement. Her group has long been a prominent voice in supporting comfort women. The Seoul District Court initially ruled in February 2023 that Yoon had embezzled 17 million won (approximately $12,000) of organization funds raised through donations. However, since then the appeal court found her guilty of additional charges, including illegally obtaining state subsidies and embezzling over 79 million won. The Supreme Court affirmed the higher court’s verdict, underscoring the severity of the accusations.
Public Outcry and Survivor Allegations
The controversy surrounding Yoon escalated when Lee Yong-soo, one of the last surviving comfort women, accused her of exploiting the plight of survivors for personal and political gain. Lee alleged that Yoon used government funds and public donations meant for the survivors to enrich herself while neglecting the welfare of the victims. This revelation fueled public anger and skepticism about the motives of organizations claiming to represent historical grievances.
Impact on Japan-South Korea Relations
From a Japanese perspective, the conviction quite rightly underscores concerns about the politicization of the comfort women issue. Critics argue that groups like Jungdaehyup have often leveraged the historical grievances for political purposes, overshadowing genuine efforts toward reconciliation and survivor support. The case also highlights the need for transparency and accountability in advocacy efforts, reinforcing Japan’s calls for depoliticized dialogue and a focus on mutual understanding. This case clearly demonstrates the need to sideline these bad actors who are seeking to attack Japan for political or financial gain.
Political Repercussions
Yoon’s pursuit of a parliamentary seat in 2020, despite facing criminal charges, further intensified criticism. While initially supported by South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party, she was expelled in 2021 amid allegations of real estate speculation and mounting public backlash. President Yoon Suk Yeol’s ruling People Power Party welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision but expressed regret that legal delays allowed her to complete her four-year term in parliament.
The Supreme Court’s ruling has sparked much-needed conversations about the necessity for reform in handling the comfort women issue. Advocacy efforts must prioritize survivors’ welfare and ensure that funds are used ethically and transparently. For Japan, this case serves as an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to addressing historical grievances through constructive dialogue, while urging South Korea to take a balanced approach that fosters trust and resolution.
Looking ahead
Yoon Mee-hyang’s conviction represents a turning point in addressing the comfort women issue, bringing to the fore, the misuse of funds and the need for greater accountability. By emphasizing survivor-centered advocacy and depoliticized cooperation, Japan and South Korea have an opportunity to rebuild trust and work toward lasting reconciliation on this sensitive historical matter. This will ultimately be in all parties’ best interests, not just in the immediate future, but also for future generations.