Former Japanese PM Tomiichi Murayama Dies at 101: The Legacy of His Historic Wartime Apology

Oct 17, 2025 04:17 pm CST

Tomiichi Murayama, Japan's former Prime Minister who delivered a landmark apology for wartime aggression in 1995, has died at 101. His "Murayama statement" became Japan's cornerstone expression of remorse for colonial and wartime actions in Asia, establishing a diplomatic standard that lasted nearly two decades. Even after retirement, he remained a vocal advocate for historical accountability and improved relations with Asian neighbors.