Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan are currently on a State Visit to Mongolia. This visit follows an invitation from Mongolia’s President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa. On July 8, 2025, Their Majesties toured the Memorial Complex for Japanese Nationals located in Dambadarjaa, Ulaanbaatar. There, they laid a wreath at the commemorative monument and honored the memories of Japanese nationals.
The Emperor and Empress received a warm welcome from N. Bolormaa, Secretary General of the Mongolian Red Cross Society (MRCS), alongside Deputy Secretary General T. Bayarchimeg. Following the reception, the MRCS team gave a detailed briefing about the Memorial Complex for Japanese Nationals, explaining its daily operations and management.
The Memorial Complex for Japanese Nationals opened in October 2001. It came about through a collaborative effort between Mongolia’s Ministry of Social Welfare and Labor, the Ulaanbaatar City Administration, the Mongolian Red Cross Society, and Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW). Moreover, both countries signed a bilateral agreement ensuring the site’s maintenance and preservation under the care of the MRCS and MHLW.
After World War II ended, Mongolia became home to over 14,000 Japanese nationals who were prisoners of war in Siberia. They contributed significantly to Mongolia’s development. For example, they helped build important landmarks such as the Government Palace foundation, the State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building. In addition, they worked on the 23-unit residential complex beside the Ministry building and the “Eldev-Ochir” Cinema.
Their efforts extended to cultural and educational buildings, including the National Library, a residential building for the Central Committee of the Party, the Party School’s main academic building, and the First Maternity Hospital. Furthermore, they improved infrastructure in areas like Ikh Tenger, Songino, and Nukht. Their labor left a lasting legacy in Mongolia.
In summary, the Memorial Complex for Japanese Nationals stands as a symbol of the historical ties between Japan and Mongolia. The recent visit by Their Majesties highlights the continuing respect and friendship between the two nations.
