Japanese anti-war activist says Tokyo must reckon with its history of aggression

National Liberation Day in Korea marks the end of Japanese colonial rule, but in Japan, it is celebrated solely as the day Japan surrendered in World War II. Nahoko Hishiyama, a Japanese peace activist, argues that this perspective glosses over Japan's history of aggression. Hishiyama, who co-heads a coalition against revisions to Japan's pacifist constitution, expressed concerns over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's intentions to revise the constitution.

Takaichi has emphasized rearmament as a necessary response to China's threats, but Hishiyama warns that such a move could escalate tensions globally rather than resolve them. Hishiyama emphasizes that true peace stems from grassroots solidarity, not state diplomacy. She credits the Japanese civic movement for increasing awareness of democracy and historical context among the youth.

Despite some progress, activists face opposition from hate groups at rallies advocating for the preservation of the pacifist constitution. Hishiyama remains hopeful, noting that personal connections between Koreans and Japanese may overcome historical barriers, fostering people-to-people diplomacy.