National Assembly approves bill to punish defamation of wartime sexual slavery victims

▲ The National Assembly passes a revised bill stipulating punishment for spreading false information of victims of sexual slavery by Japan during World War II at a plenary session in Seoul on Feb. 12, 2026. (Yonhap)

comfort women-defamation bill

National Assembly approves bill to punish defamation of wartime sexual slavery victims

SEOUL, Feb. 12 (Yonhap) -- The National Assembly on Thursday passed a bill that would punish spreading misinformation concerning victims of sexual slavery by Japan during World War II with up to five years in prison, the gender ministry said.

The amendment to a law protecting the victims of wartime sexual slavery was approved during a plenary session, according to the ministry.

Under the bill, those who spread misinformation across various media and platforms, such as newspapers, broadcasts, exhibits and rallies, will face up to five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million won (US$34,100).

However, such acts for artistic, academic, research and news-reporting purposes will be exempted as legitimate exercises of freedom of expression.

The revised bill also includes an article requiring authorities to conduct checkups on statues and symbols commemorating the victims.

"The amendment will serve as an opportunity to clearly set social standards to correct historical distortion and denial, as well as insults against the victims," Gender Minister Won Min-kyong said

The revised law will take effect three months after promulgation.

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