by Wonsuh Song
[Tokyo] Earlier this March, I visited the Korean Cultural Center in the heart of Tokyo. This year marks the 60th anniversary of normalizing diplomatic relations between Korea and 토토사이트 운영자 공소시효—an especially meaningful milestone that has drawn keen attention from both countries. I was eager to meet Gong Hyungsik, Director of the Korean Cultural Center in 토토사이트 운영자 공소시효, in person to hear about his journey so far and his vision for the future. Fluent in 토토사이트 운영자 공소시효ese and radiating a warm demeanor, he gently began by saying, “This 60th anniversary truly represents a major turning point for both nations.”
His first point of emphasis was the “historical significance of the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations.” Director Gong explained that although Korea and Japan formally established diplomatic ties in 1965, cultural exchange really picked up only after Korea opened its doors to Japanese pop culture around 1998. “At the time, there were concerns about accepting Japanese culture. But in the long run, that decisive step boosted our cultural competitiveness and laid the groundwork for the Korean Wave’s global presence.”
However, he also believes it is risky to rely solely on the Korean Wave in Japan. “While Hallyu remains firmly rooted here, we now need to promote a broader range of cultural assets, including traditional and fine arts,” he said, raising his voice slightly. Indeed, the Center has been preparing a series of traditional cultural programs, such as pansori (Korean narrative singing) performances and events that showcase hanji (Korean paper), hanbok (traditional Korean dress), and hansik (Korean cuisine). Director Gong referred to these efforts as reflecting the principle that “cultural experiences should not be limited to a single genre.”
When asked for specific examples of 60th-anniversary commemorative projects, he pointed first to the March 5 concert titled “The Elegance and Atmosphere of Korean and 토토사이트 운영자 공소시효ese Music.” Featuring pansori and traditional instruments from both countries, the event received an enthusiastic response, drawing notable figures like former Japanese Ambassador to Korea Kazuo Ogura. “When Japanese audiences directly experience the depth and richness of our traditional arts,” Gong observed, “it helps them realize just how diverse and vibrant Korean culture truly is.”
He then highlighted the importance of “cultural exchange through collaboration.” Japan boasts the world’s third-largest content market in 2023, and he believes this potential should be viewed not merely as a consumer market but as a strategic foothold for entering the global stage. “Of course, China is a large market as well, but Japan’s content infrastructure is robust, and it’s an excellent partner for collaborative projects. Working hand-in-hand, we can create successful models and expand internationally together.”
The conversation turned to youth and student-focused exchange programs, a topic on which Director Gong leaned forward with obvious enthusiasm. “Many Japanese middle and high school students, as well as college students, feel very close to Korean culture. K-pop, Korean dramas—they’re simply part of their daily lives, and it’s common to hear them sprinkle Korean words in casual conversation. If we support youth exchanges at this stage, they can engage with each other naturally and without prejudice.” The Center currently offers a variety of programs—weekend Korean-language classes, Korean speech contests for adolescents, K-pop auditions (the “K” project), and more—and plans to expand local outreach beyond Tokyo.
Director Gong also spoke with great affection about ‘Hanil Chukje Hanmadang 2024 in Tokyo’ (the Korea-Japan Festival 2024 in Tokyo), which resumed its in-person festivities last year after a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic. “We don’t have major celebrities appearing, but families from both countries gather to enjoy K-pop performances, traditional shows, and Korean food—truly a community-driven celebration. I think this grassroots spirit is what makes Korea-Japan cultural exchange so meaningful.” Even during the pandemic, the festival continued online, a decision he believes demonstrated the Center’s commitment to “cultural events where citizens themselves take the lead.”
Still, it’s not all smooth sailing. “Whenever political tensions arise, anti-Korean sentiment can resurface in Japan. But the more cultural ties expand and mutual goodwill grows, the less room there is for such negativity,” Director Gong said, acknowledging the challenges but also stressing that many open-minded Japanese citizens actively oppose such prejudices. He believes programs like “The Traveling Korean Cultural Center,” which brings Korean cultural activities directly to smaller cities, are effective in reducing negative attitudes and fostering positive impressions.
Regarding plans to use the “official logo and slogan for the 60th anniversary,” he noted that these serve as a “symbolic centerpiece” for the Center’s year-round “Korea Season” events. The logo and slogan are prominently featured at the annual Korean speech contest and at festival venues so that “the significance of this 60th anniversary can be recognized across Japan.” He added, “I hope the official logo will be used not only for government-led events but also at various private-sector events. Symbols like these help build momentum for greater Korea-Japan friendship.”
In closing, Director Gong offered his thoughts on future directions for the next generation: “Young Koreans and Japanese tend to regard each other as equals, and they’re relatively less bound by political disputes. Ten or twenty years from now, they’ll be the ones leading our societies. Their shared understanding and interests will shape the two countries’ relationship. Our role is to lay the groundwork. Rather than forcing a particular viewpoint, we need to provide opportunities for them to learn, experience, and grow on their own.”
After saying goodbye to Director Gong—who departed with a bright smile to prepare for his next event—I found myself once again reflecting on the profound impact of cultural exchange. Even amid complex political and economic tensions, a single piece of music, a captivating performance, or an immersive cultural experience can truly move hearts. Sixty years is hardly a brief span of time. Yet as the two countries forge ahead, Director Gong firmly believes that cultural engagement will serve as a “guiding light” for a future founded on mutual respect. If all goes as he hopes, this year could mark a vital turning point that strengthens the bond between Korea and 토토사이트 운영자 공소시효, expanding and deepening goodwill on both sides.
Wonsuh Song (Ph.D.)
Lecturer at Shumei University / NKNGO Forum Representative
