Japan's war memory: Remembering pain, forgetting responsibility

The debate over Japan's wartime history highlights a deep societal rift about acknowledging past atrocities and responsibilities. While some emphasize the suffering endured by both Japanese and non-Japanese during the war, others downplay Japan's role in causing harm, which complicates the nation's self-image as a peaceful country. This tension is crucial as it impacts how Japan engages with its neighbors and shapes its international relations. The ongoing struggle over historical memory has profound implications for national identity and future diplomacy.