Wartime apology author and Japan-China ‘bridge’ Yohei Kono dies at 89

Yohei Kono, a significant political figure known for his role in fostering relations between Japan and China, passed away on Monday at the age of 89. He was most recognized for issuing a historic apology on August 4, 1993, to the "comfort women" who were subjected to sexual slavery by the Japanese military during World War II. At the time of this apology, known as the "Kono Statement," he served as Japan's chief cabinet secretary. Kono was considered a moderate within the Liberal Democratic Party and later held positions as LDP president and speaker of the Japanese House of Representatives. His death occurred shortly before a reported planned trip intended to alleviate strained relations between Japan and China.