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.
Gyeonggi governor, Japanese envoy discuss bilateral cooperation
Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima, left, speaks to Gyeonggi Province Gov. Kim Dong-yeon to expand bilateral cooperation at the Gyeonggi Provincial Office, Wednesday. Courtesy of Gyeonggi Provincial Office
By Kim Hyun-bin
Gyeonggi Province Gov. Kim Dong-yeon met with Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima on Wednesday, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization between Korea and Japan and discussing ways to expand cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting at the provincial government office, Kim said, "Although Korea and Japan have experienced many ups and downs over the years, we are our closest neighbors. I’m pleased to see that our relationship is developing in a very positive direction."
He added that Gyeonggi Province, as the center of Korea’s economy and industry, hopes to see increased cooperation with Japan across various fields, including economic exchange, investment, people-to-people ties and cultural exchange.
Mizushima emphasized the importance of strengthening ties not only at the national level but also among local governments. He noted that Korea is a key partner for Japan in tackling various shared challenges and expressed hope for deeper economic cooperation moving forward.
Since forging a sisterhood relationship with Japan's Kanagawa Prefecture in 1990, Gyeonggi has expanded its ties with other Japanese regions, including signing a friendship agreement with Aichi Prefecture in 2015. In 2023, the province also opened the Gyeonggi Business Center in Tokyo as a digital outreach office.
To mark the 35th anniversary of the Gyeonggi-Kanagawa partnership, Kanagawa Governor Yuji Kuroiwa is scheduled to visit Gyeonggi on July 16.