Japan's surrender on Aug. 15, 1945, marked the end of the most devastating global conflict in history.
While millions around Asia put down their weapons, Emperor Hirohito's broadcast on the radio failed to end the hostilities for some 600,000 Japanese military personnel and civilians in mainland China or on the Korean Peninsula. They were captured by Soviet Union forces and forcibly taken north, their nightmare just beginning.
The Japan Times talks to three former detainees who somehow survived the harsh conditions in the Soviet detention camps and have dedicated their lives to preserving the memories of those who never returned home.