Tomiichi Murayama death 2025 apology
Former Japanese Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama has died at age 101. He passed away from natural causes at a hospital in his hometown, Oita.
Murayama is best known for the “Murayama Statement,” a landmark apology issued on August 15, 1995, marking the 50th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II. In the statement, he expressed “deep remorse” and offered a “heartfelt apology” for Japan’s colonial rule and aggression that caused suffering across Asia.
He served as prime minister from June 1994 until January 1996, leading a coalition government at a time of political unrest. During his term, he dealt with major crises including the 1995 Kobe earthquake and the Tokyo subway sarin attack.
Japanese leaders and international observers have responded with condolences, noting Murayama’s role in maintaining Japan’s war-remorse as a diplomatic touchstone.
