Former Japanese House Speaker Kono, renowned for his groundbreaking apology over the World War II 'comfort women' issue, died at a Tokyo hospital on the morning of June 9, 2026. He was 89.
Kono served as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 1993 to 1996. During his tenure, he spearheaded an investigation into the wartime 'comfort women' system, which culminated in a landmark report in 1993. The report acknowledged the Imperial Japanese Army's involvement in coercing women into sexual slavery and included an official apology from Japan.
This is regarded as one of the earliest and most unequivocal apologies from a senior Japanese official on the sensitive issue. Kono's apology laid the groundwork for diplomatic talks and reconciliation efforts between Japan and its neighbors, particularly South Korea.
Details regarding his funeral and burial rites have not been immediately announced. Political leaders and scholars are expected to pay tribute to his legacy in the coming days.
