South Korean compensation plan for Japan’s wartime forced labour victims draws ire

Seoul unveiled a plan on January 12, 2023, to compensate victims of Japan’s wartime forced labour through a South Korean public foundation. Most had expected reparation  funds from Japanese companies. The plan sparked a backlash from victims and their families, who criticised the proposal for releasing Japanese firms from their obligations. Many refused to attend the public hearing and rallied in front of the parliament building.