During that time, a "scorched earth" policy was extensively used, and numerous atrocities, like using coolies to clear minefields,[1] or mass killing of civilians by 45th independent infantry battalion[2] were recorded. On 30 May 1945, the 59th Division was attached to the Kwantung Army and assigned to 34th Army on 18 June 1945. The last battalions of the 59th Division arrived in Hamhung in early July 1945 and were still fortifying positions, together with 137th Division, during the Soviet invasion of Manchuria on 9 August 1945 and the surrender of Japan on 15 August 1945.