Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Japan’s envoy highlights progress on 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization
Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima gives a speech during the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization event in Seoul, June 16. Yonhap
By Kim Hyun-bin
Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima on Monday emphasized that the growing economic and people-to-people exchanges between Korea and Japan over the past six decades represent a new beginning for bilateral cooperation.
Speaking at a reception in Seoul on June 16 hosted by the Japanese Embassy to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the nations, Mizushima highlighted the cultural significance of this milestone, describing it as the completion of a 60-year cycle in East Asian tradition — an occasion representing both reflection and renewal.
Mizushima acknowledged that the bilateral relationship has had its ups and downs, but thanks to the consistent efforts of leaders and citizens on both sides, it has grown steadily across a variety of sectors.
He pointed to clear data that underscores this progress. For example, Japanese investment in Korea increased from $500,000 in 1965 to $6.12 billion in 2024, establishing Japan as Korea’s largest foreign investor. Over the same period, the number of travelers between the two countries grew from 10,000 to over 12 million, setting a new record last year.
Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima, ninth from left, poses with company and government officials during the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization event in Seoul, June 16. Yonhap
According to Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, Japan’s foreign direct investment in 2024 exceeded China’s, with Japan contributing $5.79 billion. Mizushima highlighted that more people now travel between Korea and Japan in a single day than visited in total in 1965.
He added that this increase in interaction between the two countries’ populations has been accompanied by growing cultural, sporting and other exchanges, reflecting the strengthening relationship between the two neighbors.
He emphasized the strategic importance of Japan-Korea relations, particularly in light of their shared global challenges. He described the two countries as vital neighbors who must collaborate on a wide range of international issues. As the regional and global strategic environment becomes increasingly complex, Mizushima said that the bilateral relationship has reached an irreversible point of interdependence and has become more important than ever.
The ambassador also referenced the recent telephone conversation between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and President Lee Jae-myung. During this conversation, the two leaders emphasized the importance of close trilateral cooperation between Korea, Japan and the United States. The ambassador called for continued high-level communication to ensure that the Japan-Korea relationship develops in a stable and forward-looking manner.
Mizushima framed the 60th anniversary as a symbolic new starting point, given the East Asian cultural view of the 60-year cycle, known as Gapja, which marks the completion of one full cycle. He called on both countries to support the next generation, which will be responsible for further advancing bilateral ties. Looking ahead to the next 60 years, he encouraged both nations to collaborate more deeply and work toward a better future.
The reception began with a choral performance by elementary school students from the Japanese School in Seoul, founded in 1972. The event also featured stalls offering hands-on experiences of traditional Japanese culture, including sake tasting and ikebana flower arranging. There were also exhibitions of Japanese animation characters, creating a festive and interactive atmosphere.
Around 1,000 people attended the event, including high-level government officials, business leaders, academics, lawmakers and members of the diplomatic corps.