Why a young girl? This is the question that often comes to mind when standing before the Statue of Peace here in Seoul. The Statue of Peace isn’t just a statue. It’s a powerful symbol. It represents the “comfort women,” victims of sexual slavery by the Japanese military during World War II. The girl depicted is not an individual. She represents all the young women and girls, some as young as twelve, who were forced into this horrific system. The statue’s small size and youthful appearance poignantly contrast with the immense suffering these women endured. The clenched fists in her lap speak volumes. They convey resilience, defiance, and the long fight for recognition and justice.
The first Statue of Peace was unveiled in 2011, right here in Seoul, in front of the former Japanese Embassy. It marked the 1,000th Wednesday Demonstration, a testament to the tireless activism of these women and their supporters. The statue’s creator, Kim Seo-kyung, and Kim Eun-sung, originally envisioned a simple memorial stone. However, they were so moved by the women’s plight and angered by attempts to suppress their voices that they decided to create something more impactful. The Statue of Peace was born.
The statue quickly became a focal point. It brought international attention to the “comfort women” issue. It also became a source of tension between South Korea and Japan, with Japan repeatedly calling for its removal. This statue, however, has also inspired the creation of replica statues around the world. Each statue stands as a reminder of the atrocities committed and the ongoing struggle for justice.
The Statue of Peace isn’t just about the past. It’s about the present and the future. It serves as a call to action, a reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice and standing in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence. Look closely at the bird perched on the girl’s shoulder. It symbolizes hope, the hope for a future where such atrocities are never repeated. The flowers and stuffed animals placed around the statue represent the love and support of the community, offering a small measure of comfort to those who suffered unimaginable pain.