The Sado Gold Mine and Japan's ‘History War’ Versus the Memory of Korean Forced Laborers

Japan's nomination of the Sado Island Gold Mines for UNESCO World Heritage status has exacerbated tensions with South Korea, as it overlooks the site's history of forced Korean labor under Mitsubishi during wartime. Research, including victim testimonies and historical sources, reveals that Korean laborers endured deadly conditions, racial discrimination, and abuse on Sado Island. This study highlights how Japan's refusal to acknowledge this dark chapter in its industrial history reflects a broader 'history war' against Korea, undermining reconciliation efforts. The analysis combines local and Korean research to expose the systemic exploitation at the site, contrasting it with Japan's selective historical narratives.

Johnsen, N. (2022). The Sado Gold Mine and Japan’s ‘History War’ Versus the Memory of Korean Forced Laborers. Asia-Pacific Journal, 20(16). https://doi.org/10.1017/s1557466022018794