1. The Korea National Diplomatic Academy (KNDA) held the signboard-hanging and opening ceremony of its Center for Japanese Studies on August 12.

◦ The event brought together some 100 people relevant to the Republic of Korea-Japan relations, including Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se, Chairwoman Na Kyung-won of the National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, Representative Shim Yoon-jo, Japanese Ambassador to the ROK Koro Bessho, Secretary-General Shigeo Iwatani of the ROK-China-Japan Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat, former ROK Ambassador to Japan Oh Jae-hee and Japanese correspondents in the ROK.

2. In his congratulatory remarks, Minister Yun said that the statement expected to be issued by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe late this week would be a touchstone for future improvements in bilateral ties at this historic point in time marking the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and the 50th anniversary of the normalization of the ROK-Japan diplomatic relations. He added that should the statement express in unambiguous and clear language the historical views contained in the Murayama Statement and other statements issued by former Japanese Cabinets, it will provide a great momentum for promoting a virtuous circle in advancing bilateral ties.

◦ In addition, the Minister asked the Center for Japanese Studies to function as a think tank that not only conducts research but also takes concrete actions. He also voiced hope that the Center will serve as a valuable cradle for preparing for a bright future between the two countries.

2. In her congratulatory remarks, Chairwoman Na Kyung-won of the National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, highlighting the importance of the ROK-Japan relations, pointed out the need for the two countries to share common views on their past historical issues and work together toward the future. She expressed expectation that the Center will play an important role in molding the future for the ROK and Japan.

3. Japanese Ambassador to the ROK Koro Bessho, offering heart-felt congratulations to the Center on its opening, conveyed his hope that the Center will play an important role in moving the ROK-Japan relations forward.

4. Going forward, the KNDA’s Center for Japanese Studies will conduct research on the ROK-Japan relations and mid- to long-term diplomatic strategies; strengthen networking with local and foreign think tanks on Japan; and boost public diplomacy toward Japan, thereby contributing to advances in the bilateral ties.


* unofficial translation