Image Credits - AFP
Japan’s Sado mines, notorious for their use of coerced labour during World War II, were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list on July 27, 2024. This decision followed South Korea’s withdrawal of its objections to the designation, marking a significant improvement in Japan-South Korea relations. The Sado gold and silver mines, operational since the 12th century, were once the world’s largest gold producers and continued until 1989.
Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa praised the inscription, highlighting the local community’s efforts. The UNESCO committee acknowledged the archaeological significance of the mines, emphasizing their historical mining practices and labour organization.
South Korea’s support came after Japan agreed to include information about the harsh conditions faced by Korean labourers in an exhibit, acknowledging past abuses.
Historians note that Korean workers were often assigned the most dangerous tasks, facing poor working conditions and inadequate rations. The Japanese government plans to hold annual memorial services for the labourers at the site, reflecting a commitment to confront its wartime history. This listing is part of a broader effort to reconcile the historical narrative surrounding Japan’s wartime actions, which have long strained bilateral ties.
The decision was made during a UNESCO committee meeting in New Delhi, where the inclusion of the Sado mines was unanimously supported. This development follows Japan’s previous unsuccessful attempt to secure World Heritage status for the site, which was criticized for lacking comprehensive historical context. The Sado mines’ recognition is seen as a step towards acknowledging both the advancements in mining technology and the darker aspects of its history.
As Japan continues to navigate its wartime legacy, the Sado mines’ inclusion in the World Heritage list serves as a reminder of the complexities of historical memory and reconciliation in East Asia.