The governments of the Republic of Korea and Japan have promoted a wide range of commemorative events marking the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations this year, with the aim of enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries.

A number of joint projects of the two governments commemorating the 60th anniversary were held – the lighting ceremonies of Namsan Seoul Tower and Tokyo Tower (February 15), the 60th Anniversary Commemorative Receptions (June 16 in Seoul / June 19 in Tokyo), the operation of fast-track immigration lanes for nationals of both countries (June), and the Korea–Japan Festival (October 12 in Seoul / September 27–28 in Tokyo). In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea hosted events including the “New Joseon Tongsinsa Cycling Expedition” (October 26–November 11) and the Korea–Japan Youth and Civic Diplomacy Forum (November 21–22, Seoul).

※ The New Joseon Tongsinsa (diplomatic envoys sent to Japan during the Joseon Dynasty) Cycling Expedition brought together citizens from both countries to retrace the historical route of the Joseon Tongsinsa, traveling by bicycle from Seoul to Tokyo. Participants visited major cities in Korea and Japan, exploring sites that reflect the long-standing friendship and history of exchanges between the two nations (Seoul–Gyeongju–Busan–Osaka–Nagoya–Tokyo).

In particular, at the 60th Anniversary Commemorative Receptions held successively in Seoul and Tokyo in June, the leaders of both countries, in their congratulatory remarks, highly praised the progress made in Korea–Japan relations across various areas, including the economy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, and expressed their shared commitment to further developing a future-oriented bilateral relationship.

Building on the achievements of the various initiatives carried out to mark the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue its efforts to further expand future-oriented cooperation over the next 60 years between Korea and Japan, as well as between the peoples of the two countries.