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Jin Jina, South Korea’s second vice foreign minister, delivers remarks during a reception hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Seoul to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization between Korea and Japan, at Lotte Hotel in Seoul on June 16. / Photo by Jeong Chae-hyun

"We will continue striving for a stable and future-oriented Korea-Japan relationship."

Vice Foreign Minister Jin Jina emphasized mutual trust between the two nations at a reception held at Seoul’s Lotte Hotel on June 16. Hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Seoul, the event marked the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan. A reciprocal reception is also being held in Tokyo as part of the commemorative projects jointly organized by both foreign ministries.

From the Japanese side, Akihisa Nagashima, a close aide to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima and his spouse were in attendance.

In her speech, Jin stated, “The progress in Korea-Japan relations has been built on mutual trust and exchanges between our peoples,” and added, “I believe our two countries can shape a future-oriented partnership to meet the demands of a new era. Let us move forward together toward a brighter future, strengthened by deepening trust and friendship.”

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President Lee Jae-myung delivers a congratulatory message via video during a reception hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Seoul to mark the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic normalization at Lotte Hotel in Seoul on June 16. / Photo by Jeong Chae-hyun

President Lee Jae-myung also sent a congratulatory message via video from Canada, where he is attending the G7 Summit. "Over the past 60 years, Korea and Japan have achieved remarkable progress in areas such as economy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges," he said. "In today’s rapidly shifting international landscape, the two countries must seek cooperative solutions as key partners." He closed his remarks by echoing the 60th anniversary slogan: “Hand in hand, toward a better future.”

A separate 60th anniversary reception hosted by the Korean Embassy in Tokyo is scheduled for June 19. There is speculation that Prime Minister Ishiba himself may attend the event. In addition to the receptions, the two governments are organizing a variety of commemorative programs, alongside numerous civilian-led celebrations.