Lecture on the Experience of Comfort Women during WWII

Introduction

• Context: Sumi, a young woman, reflects on her journey and experiences as a comfort woman during WWII.
• Backdrop: Her story exemplifies the plight of nearly 200,000 young women deceived and forced into sexual slavery.

Life Before Enlistment

• Village Life: Sumi's village was impoverished, with families struggling to survive.
• Recruitment: Men from the district office promised jobs overseas as a lifeline.
  • Positions Offered: Nursing assistants, factory workers.
  • Family's Trust: Seen as a patriotic duty; refusal wasn't an option.

The Reality of Comfort Stations

• Initial Realization: Sumi realizes too late that promises were deceit.
• Living Conditions: Harsh, with minimal provisions and rest.
  • Daily Routine: Began at 7 am with a bell from 'big sisters'.
  • Physical Environment: Wooden rooms, minimal bedding.
  • Food: Inadequate meals leading to constant hunger.

Abuse and Punishment

• Forced Labor: From 9 am, women faced daily abuse by soldiers.
• Punishments: Non-compliance led to beatings.
• Sumi's Resistance: Attempts to hide or alter appearance met with violence.

Medical Negligence

• Health Issues: Sumi contracted diseases due to repeated assaults.
• Medical Treatment: Inadequate and painful; No. 606 for syphilis.
• Pregnancy: Forced abortions were common.

Bombardments and Temporary Shelters

• Air Raids: Frequent bombings added danger.
• Escape Attempts: Women and soldiers rushed to caves for safety.
• Return to Business: As bombing subsided, exploitation resumed.

Human Moments Amidst Horror

• Kamikaze Encounter: A soldier's brief act of kindness, providing Sumi with a photo and toiletries.
• Realization of Location: Learns she is in Sinzhu, Taiwan.

Post-War Consequences

• End of WWII: Freedom came but not true liberation.
• Aftermath: Lifelong injuries, diseases, psychological scars.
  • Social Stigma: Shunned by society, families.
  • Fight for Justice: Ongoing struggle against denial and resistance.

Legacy

• Endurance and Demand for Justice: Represents a tragic yet resilient chapter in history.
• Global Recognition: Slow acknowledgment of suffering and injustices endured by comfort women.