Russia has returned the remains of one thousand Japanese soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. The repatriation was in response to Japan's persistent efforts to retrieve the remains of its war dead. This gesture by Russia is seen as a significant step for the countries since they haven't signed a formal peace treaty due to territory disputes since the end of the war.

In Japan, honoring the dead is an integral part of the culture, particularly for those who died serving their country. The failure to retrieve and properly lay to rest war dead is seen as a significant issue by the Japanese government and citizens alike. This news, therefore, carries substantial emotional weight for many in Japan.

The United States and European Union countries also seek to recover the remains of their fallen soldiers. However, the process is not as emotionally charged as in Japan given the contrast in cultural attitudes toward the war dead.