Comfort Women In Asia During WW2- In Honor of Women’s History Month

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⚠️ Content Advisory Statement

This episode discusses wartime sexual

violence, coercion, and historical trauma related to the “comfort

women” system during World War II. Some listeners may find

these topics distressing. We encourage you to listen at your own

pace and prioritize your well-being. Support resources are

included in the episode description. 

March is Women’s History Month — a time to honor resilience,

resistance, and the often untold stories of women who shaped

our world. Today’s episode explores one of the most painful and complex

chapters of 20th-century history: the system of sexual

enslavement known as the “comfort women” system during

World War II. Across Asia — including Korea, China, the Philippines,

Indonesia, and beyond — thousands of girls and women were

coerced or forced into military brothels run by the Imperial

Japanese Army. For decades, many survivors lived in silence,

carrying trauma that extended far beyond the war itself.

In this episode, we examine not only the historical record, but

also the enduring psychological impact, the fight for recognition

and justice, and the global movement to preserve survivor

testimony.

This conversation contains discussions of sexual violence and

historical trauma. Listener discretion is advised.

We approach this topic with respect, care, and a commitment to

centering survivor voices.

 Thank you for joining us.

📚Resource List for Listeners

Historical & Educational Resources

• The Korean Council for Justice and Remembrance – Advocacy,

survivor testimony, and educational materials

• Women’s Active Museum on War and Peace – Research and

documentation center in Tokyo

• Amnesty International – Reports on wartime sexual violence

• United Nations Human Rights Office – International reports and

statements

Books

• The Comfort Women by George Hicks

• Comfort Women Speak by Sangmie Choi Schellstede

•  The Undrowning Lotus: A WW2 Historical Novel, Based on a True Story of a Sexual Slavery Survivor-by Jenny Chan 

Documentaries

• The Apology (dir. Tiffany Hsiung)

• Silence Broken: Korean Comfort Women

Mental Health Support (U.S.-based)

• RAINN – 800-656-HOPE or rainn.org

• National Alliance on Mental Illness – nami.org