Reflecting on History at the Peace Monument of Glendale

You stand in Central Park in Glendale, where the quiet bronze of a girl sitting in a chair creates a profound space for reflection just steps from the public library. This is the Peace Monument of Glendale, an exact replica of the Statue of Peace originally located in Seoul. It serves as a solemn tribute to "comfort women"—women and girls forced into sex slavery by the Japanese military during World War II.

Deciphering the Symbolism of the Bronze

The monument is not merely a statue; it is a narrative told through bronze details that invite you to look closely at the girl's form. As you stand before her, observe the specific elements designed to convey her history and internal state:

• The Uneven Hair: The rough, unevenly cut hair signifies the trauma of being forcibly removed from home and the suffering endured during her captivity.
• The Clenched Fist: Her fist represents both her endurance through injustice and her resolve to seek justice.
• Bare Feet: Her unsettled feet symbolize the abandonment by the world and the inability to find a secure ground or trust in her environment.
• The Bird: A bronze bird perched on her left shoulder symbolizes freedom, peace, and the connection between the living and the deceased.
• The Shadow: Behind the girl is the shadow of an elderly woman, representing how time passes while trauma remains unspoken.
• The Butterfly: Located at the heart of the shadow, this butterfly represents the hope for reincarnation into a new life and the ultimate hope for an apology from those who caused her harm.

A Seat for Reflection

Next to the girl sits an empty chair. This space is intentional; it represents the aging survivors who have not yet received justice, while providing a place for you to sit and contemplate the history of these women. The monument stands as a physical reminder of violated rights and a warning regarding the vulnerability of women during times of war.

Timing Your Visit

The Peace Monument is situated in Central Park near the Glendale Public Library, making it a focused site for contemplation. Spend enough time to walk slowly around the sculpture, ensuring you notice the nuances of the shadow and the placement of the butterfly. Because the monument was established following specific international resolutions and local advocacy, it remains a significant site of historical memory in the region.

After you have visited the memorial, you may choose to explore other nearby locations in Glendale, such as the Autry Museum of the American West, the Glendale Transportation Center, Los Angeles Zoo, Palmer Park, or the Roslin Art Gallery.