Core Viewpoint - The event "Defending Historical Truth and Gathering Strength for Progress" was held in Nanjing, focusing on the book "Research on Japanese Military 'Comfort Women'" which aims to reveal the inhumane nature of the Japanese military's comfort women system through rigorous historical research and analysis [1][2] Group 1: Event Overview - The event was co-hosted by the Jiangsu Provincial Committee of the Chinese Nationalist Party and Tuanjie Publishing Company, emphasizing Nanjing's historical significance related to the atrocities committed by the Japanese military [1] - The book "Research on Japanese Military 'Comfort Women'" was published to counter the erosion of historical facts due to the loss of materials and the dwindling number of survivors [1] Group 2: Academic Contributions - Professor Su Zhiliang, the author of the book and president of the Shanghai Anti-Japanese War Research Association, shared insights during the event, highlighting the importance of remembering history and the suffering of the nation [2] - Experts and scholars at the event discussed the book and the current state of research on the comfort women system, emphasizing its significance in promoting historical awareness and peace [2]

Core Viewpoint - The recently declassified Soviet archives reveal the atrocities committed by the Japanese Unit 731, highlighting the systematic and organized nature of their war crimes against humanity [1][2]. Group 1: Historical Evidence - The newly released documents cover a period from May 1939 to December 1950 and include testimonies from over 200 individuals associated with Unit 731, confirming the unit's involvement in biological warfare aimed at mass destruction [1]. - The archives complement existing evidence from China regarding Unit 731's crimes, creating a comprehensive evidence chain that implicates various levels of Japanese military personnel in these organized crimes [1]. Group 2: Ongoing Historical Revisionism - Despite the overwhelming evidence, some political factions in Japan continue to engage in historical revisionism, attempting to distort the narrative through textbook modifications and portraying Japan as a victim on the international stage [2]. - The actions of Japanese right-wing groups, including visits to the Yasukuni Shrine and attempts to increase military spending, signal a troubling resurgence of militarism that challenges post-World War II international order [3]. Group 3: Importance of Historical Memory - The release of these documents serves not only as a reminder of past atrocities but also as a call to uphold historical truth and prevent the recurrence of such crimes [3]. - The commemoration of historical events, such as the Nanjing Massacre, emphasizes the need to preserve the memory of victims and ensure that the lessons of history are not forgotten [3].

Core Viewpoint - The recent release of declassified Soviet interrogation documents regarding the Japanese Unit 731 exposes the systematic and organized nature of their crimes against humanity, reinforcing the historical truth of these atrocities [1][2]. Group 1: Evidence and Documentation - The newly released documents cover a period from May 1939 to December 1950 and reveal that over 200 individuals were involved in the crimes of Unit 731 [1]. - The scientific assessments conducted by Soviet experts in various fields concluded that the purpose of Japan's bacterial research was to utilize bacteria for large-scale human destruction [1]. - The documents complement existing evidence from China regarding the Unit 731 site and its crimes, forming a comprehensive evidence chain that confirms the organized nature of Japan's biological warfare [1]. Group 2: Historical Context and Reactions - Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in the crimes of Unit 731, with various archives being uncovered, including detailed experimental data and photographs that provide undeniable facts [2]. - Despite the overwhelming evidence, some political factions in Japan continue to engage in historical revisionism, attempting to distort the narrative through textbook modifications and portraying Japan as a victim on the international stage [2]. - The actions of Japanese right-wing forces, including visits to the Yasukuni Shrine and attempts to increase military spending, signal a troubling revival of militarism that challenges post-World War II international order [3]. Group 3: Importance of Historical Memory - The Chinese government emphasizes the importance of remembering historical events to prevent future conflicts, advocating for the release of documents not to perpetuate hatred but to promote peace [3]. - The commemoration of historical atrocities, such as the Nanjing Massacre, serves as a reminder to protect and uphold the truth of history, ensuring that the crimes of the Japanese military are permanently recognized [3].

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese media, particularly during the time of the Nanjing Massacre, recorded some facts but largely remained silent on many atrocities committed by the Japanese military [1][3]. Group 1: Historical Reporting - A systematic review of Japanese newspapers from around 1937 reveals that journalists intentionally concealed the truth about the Nanjing Massacre and other atrocities committed by the Japanese military [3]. - A book titled "The Nanjing Incident and News Reporting - What Journalists Wrote and Did Not Write" has been authored to document these findings [3]. Group 2: Acknowledgment of Historical Responsibility - It is emphasized that Japan must confront its history of aggression and acknowledge its wartime responsibilities to foster genuine understanding and trust with neighboring Asian countries [5]. - The failure to reach a societal consensus on the nature of the aggressive war is identified as a significant post-war failure for Japan [6]. Group 3: Importance of Historical Documentation - The necessity for authors to write about historical truths is highlighted, as it provides resources for those seeking to understand the past [6].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of remembering the Nanjing Massacre and the ongoing efforts to preserve historical evidence and honor the victims through national memorials and the release of archival materials [1][8][14]. Group 1: National Memorial and Historical Remembrance - The national memorial ceremony for the victims of the Nanjing Massacre was held on December 13, 2025, marking the 12th anniversary of the event [1]. - During the ceremony, a moment of silence was observed, and various activities were conducted to honor the victims, including air raid sirens and car honking in Nanjing [1][3]. - The number of living survivors of the Nanjing Massacre has dwindled to only 24, highlighting the urgency of preserving their stories and the historical truth [3]. Group 2: Historical Artifacts and Evidence - A recent exhibition at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Museum showcased newly discovered artifacts, including letters from Japanese soldiers and photographs from the occupation, which serve as evidence of the atrocities committed [3][5]. - One notable artifact is a letter from a Japanese soldier that describes the brutal killings in Nanjing, providing a chilling perspective on the events [5]. - The museum has seen a significant increase in donations of historical materials, with a 30% rise compared to previous years, indicating a growing commitment to preserving history [6]. Group 3: Archival Materials and Historical Truth - Newly declassified Soviet documents related to the Japanese Unit 731's war crimes were released, adding to the historical record of Japan's wartime atrocities [8][10]. - The documents include testimonies from war criminals that detail inhumane experiments conducted by Unit 731, reinforcing the narrative of organized and systematic war crimes [12][14]. - The release of these documents serves to counteract historical revisionism and affirm the reality of the atrocities committed during the war [6][14].

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese government has consistently avoided acknowledging the crimes of Unit 731, leading to a lack of awareness and accountability among the Japanese population regarding wartime atrocities [1][2]. Group 1: Historical Context - Abe Kai, a Japanese historian, highlights that many historical facts about Unit 731 have long been obscured in Japan, resulting in a significant portion of the population, including the elderly, being unaware of its existence and actions [2]. - The atrocities committed by Unit 731, including inhumane treatment of prisoners and the development of biological weapons, are documented in English materials that Abe has translated for Japanese readers [1]. Group 2: Post-War Accountability - Despite the heinous crimes committed during the war, many members of Unit 731, including Shiro Ishii, faced no repercussions after the war and instead integrated into prominent positions within Japan's pharmaceutical companies and medical institutions [2]. - The U.S. conducted investigations into Unit 731 but focused on the data collected rather than prosecuting war crimes, allowing Ishii to escape accountability through a deal with American authorities [1]. Group 3: Current Implications - The ongoing increase in Japan's defense spending and the actions of political leaders, such as frequent visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, reflect a troubling lack of historical awareness and responsibility [2]. - Abe expresses concern that Japan's failure to confront its wartime history, including events like the Nanjing Massacre and the exploitation of "comfort women," perpetuates a shadow of militarism over the nation [2].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition titled "The Last Redemption" in Tokyo showcases historical photographs collected by Marcus Dretas's grandfather, revealing the atrocities committed by the Japanese military during World War II, particularly in Shanghai [1][2]. Group 1: Exhibition Details - The exhibition features dozens of historical photographs and copies, including original pieces, that document the bombings and massacres perpetrated by Japanese forces [1]. - Marcus discovered the photographs in his grandfather's garage in 2021 and has since donated 618 of them to the Shanghai Songhu Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall [1]. - The photographs, printed between the 1930s and 1950s, provide a diverse perspective on the Shanghai Campaign and are considered valuable historical resources for studying the Anti-Japanese War and the global anti-fascist movement [1]. Group 2: Historical Context and Impact - Marcus's grandfather lost two children to Japanese forces, and he aims to raise awareness about the historical truth, as many Japanese textbooks downplay or omit the invasion history [2]. - The exhibition was organized by Marcus and his friends, who faced criticism from some Western media and opposition from certain factions in Japan [2]. - The exhibition seeks to awaken the conscience of the Japanese public, especially in light of the rising far-right sentiments in Japan [2]. Group 3: Audience Reactions - Attendees, including Japanese citizens and veterans, expressed the importance of the exhibition in understanding Japan's wartime actions and the suffering of the Chinese people [3]. - The exhibition is planned to continue in other Asian countries, Europe, and the United States, aiming to spread awareness of historical truths [3].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition titled "The Last Redemption" held by French youth Marcus Dretas in Tokyo aims to provide Western civilian testimony regarding Japan's wartime atrocities in China, showcasing historical photographs collected by his grandfather [2][3]. Group 1: Exhibition Details - The exhibition features dozens of historical photographs, including original and reproduced images, that reveal the atrocities committed by the Japanese military during World War II, such as the bombing of Shanghai and the massacre of civilians [2]. - Marcus discovered the collection of 618 historical photographs in his grandfather's garage in 2021, which were printed between the 1930s and 1950s, and donated them to the Shanghai Songhu Anti-Japanese War Memorial Museum [3]. - The photographs document the extensive killings of Chinese civilians by the Japanese military and are considered valuable historical resources for studying the Anti-Japanese War and the global anti-fascist movement [3]. Group 2: Historical Context and Impact - Marcus's grandfather lost two children to Japanese forces, and he aims to counter the narrative in Japanese textbooks that often downplay or obscure the history of wartime atrocities [3]. - The exhibition is organized by Marcus and his friends, who faced criticism from some Western media and opposition from certain factions within Japan [3]. - The exhibition seeks to raise awareness among the Japanese public about their historical actions and promote a more objective understanding of Japan's past in Asia [3]. Group 3: Audience Reactions - Visitors to the exhibition expressed a deep awareness of Japan's aggressive history, with one attendee emphasizing the need for Japanese people to engage with such exhibitions to broaden their historical perspective [4]. - A descendant of a Japanese soldier remarked on the exhibition's significance in accurately documenting the atrocities committed by the Japanese military and the miscalculations of the Japanese government during the war [4]. - The exhibition is planned to continue in other Asian countries, Europe, and the United States, aiming to spread awareness of historical truths [4].

Core Viewpoint - The book "Medical Human Experiments by Japanese Biological Warfare Units in China (1932-1945)" was launched at the 2025 Tianfu Book Fair, highlighting the historical truth of Japanese human experiments during the Second Sino-Japanese War [1][4]. Group 1: Book Launch and Authors - The book was co-published by New Star Press and Sichuan People's Publishing House, with a focus on the brutal human experiments conducted by the Japanese military [3][4]. - Author Tilman B. Nagel, a professor at Heidelberg University, participated in the launch via video, sharing his research experiences in China and emphasizing the importance of remembering the suffering caused by these experiments [1][3]. Group 2: Historical Significance - The book aims to objectively reveal the historical truth of Japanese biological warfare in China, providing significant support for historical research and peace education [4][6]. - The publication serves as a powerful call for human conscience and peace, reflecting the international academic community's respect for historical truth [3][4]. Group 3: International Impact - The book had its global premiere at the 77th Frankfurt Book Fair on October 15, receiving a warm response, and its domestic launch at the Tianfu Book Fair further expands its influence [3][4]. - The collaboration between the Tianfu Book Fair and the Frankfurt Book Fair established an international cultural exchange platform, enhancing the book's international visibility [3][6].

Core Viewpoint - The film "731" is set to premiere on September 18 in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, with simultaneous releases in countries like Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, and South Korea, generating significant anticipation among audiences [1][2]. Group 1: Audience Engagement - The film has garnered unprecedented attention, with over 4.489 million people expressing interest on the Maoyan platform, setting a record for the highest number of "want to see" entries in mainland China's film history [1]. - Pre-sale box office revenue has exceeded 87 million RMB, indicating strong viewer expectations [1]. Group 2: Cultural and Historical Significance - The film aims to illuminate historical truths about the atrocities committed by the Japanese military during World War II, with the producer emphasizing the importance of remembering history [1][2]. - The premiere in Hong Kong is particularly symbolic, with 55 theaters scheduled to show approximately 200 screenings on the opening day, and a special premiere event timed at 7:31 PM to highlight its significance [1]. Group 3: International Reception - Chinese students studying abroad are actively engaging with the film, inviting peers to view it and discuss its historical context, which challenges previous misconceptions about the events depicted [2]. - Family members of victims express hope that the film will raise global awareness of historical truths, particularly among the Japanese public, and encourage official apologies from the Japanese government [2].