According to Yonhap News, the Seoul Central District Court's Civil Division 22, led by Judge Park Jeong-ho, held the first hearing on May 29 for a lawsuit filed by 117 victims seeking damages from the Republic of Korea.
The plaintiffs emphasized that this lawsuit is not merely about holding the government accountable for damages. They pointed out that the Supreme Court has already acknowledged the illegality of the government's role in the establishment, management, and operation of military base towns. Therefore, they argue that the court must also investigate how the U.S. military was involved in the prostitution structure in these areas.
The plaintiffs' attorney stated, "While the formal defendant is the Republic of Korea, it is essential to clarify how the U.S. military collaborated with the South Korean government to promote prostitution in military base towns. We request a progressive ruling that holds the U.S. military accountable."
The attorney explained that under the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) and the U.S.-South Korea Mutual Defense Treaty, if U.S. military personnel are found legally responsible, the South Korean government must first provide compensation and can later seek reimbursement from the U.S. military. Based on this, the plaintiffs argue that both the South Korean government's liability and the U.S. military's involvement and responsibility should be revealed during the trial.
The elderly victims' decision to appear in court was also highlighted. The attorney remarked, "The plaintiffs have returned to court in the twilight of their lives to share their experiences of victimization. They hope this case will shed light on the responsibilities of authorities in the operation of military base towns."
During the hearing, direct testimonies from victims were also presented. One victim, who identified herself as a 'comfort woman' for U.S. soldiers, recounted, "I was taken to a military base town at the age of 16. Many women were brought there without knowing anything at the time."
She questioned, "How could such events occur in a place where entry was only allowed with the military's permission, and the U.S. military claim they were unaware? I have lived in fear due to past experiences, but I found the courage to speak out to expose the wrongs of the U.S. military."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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