President Yoon Suk Yeol on March 6 announced a solution to compensation for forced labor victims during Japanese colonial occupation of the Korean Peninsula, calling it a "decision for future generations." Shown are President Yoon (center) and first lady Kim Keon Hee on March 1 singing an independence movement song at the Memorial Hall of Yu Gwan-sun in Seoul’s Jung-gu District to mark the 104th anniversary of the March First Independence Movement. (Office of the President)

By Yoon Sojung

President Yoon Suk Yeol on March 7 announced his administration's solution to compensation for forced labor victims during the Japanese colonial period, saying, "As a result of respecting the position of the victims, we have sought ways to meet the common interests and future development of both Korea and Japan."

In his opening remarks at a Cabinet meeting in the morning at the Office of the President in Seoul, he said, "Future-oriented cooperation between Korea and Japan will clearly protect freedom, peace and prosperity not only for both countries but also the entire world."

"Japan has gone from a militaristic aggressor in the past to a partner who shares universal values with us and cooperates in security, economy, science and technology, and global agendas."

To his Cabinet, the president said, "For future-oriented bilateral cooperation, I ask you to meticulously prepare and support the creation of a cooperative system between the ministries of both governments and substantial exchange and cooperation between the business world and future generations."

The government on March 6 announced its solution to compensating the victims and their families through a "third-party reimbursement" plan with funding from a foundation under the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said the efforts are "aiming to restore Japan-Korea relations to a healthy state," adding, "Japan will work to improve the relations through close communication with President Yoon Suk Yeol." 

The U.S., United Nations (UN), European Union (EU) and others issued statements welcoming Seoul's solution to the issue.

U.S. President Joe Biden on March 6 told a White House briefing in Washington, "Today's announcements between the Republic of Korea and Japan mark a groundbreaking new chapter of cooperation and partnership between two of the United States' closest allies." 

"With two historic foreign ministerial statements, President Yoon and Prime Minister Kishida are taking a critical step to forge a future for the Korean and Japanese people that is safer, more secure, and more prosperous," he added. "The United States will continue to support the leaders of Japan and the Republic of Korea."

Major Korean media including Yonhap News quoted U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on March 6 telling Voice of America (VOA) on the issue, "I welcome the recent positive exchanges and the future-oriented dialogue between Korea and Japan." 

Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the U.N. chief, also told VOA that the secretary general "encourages both sides to seek a comprehensive solution to the bilateral dispute based on internationally recognized principles."

The European External Action Service, the EU's de facto foreign ministry, on March 6 released a statement by its spokesperson saying, "The European Union welcomes the important steps announced today in efforts by the Republic of Korea and Japanese governments to advance their bilateral relations and build a future-oriented relationship."

"The Republic of Korea and Japan are critically important, like-minded strategic partners of the European Union. The European Union sees close cooperation between the Republic of Korea and Japan as a vital pillar in strengthening the international rules-based order and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region."

U.S. President Joe Biden on March 6 welcomed the Korean government's solution to compensation for forced labor victims during Japanese occupation of the Korean Peninsula in a statement posted on the White House's website. (Screen capture of White House's website)

The European External Action Service (EEAS) on March 6 released a statement by its spokesperson welcoming Seoul's solution to the forced labor issue. (Screen capture of EEAS website)

arete@korea.kr