Discussion
The seminar examined various issues surrounding the geopolitical situation in Northeast Asia, as well as environmental, security, and economic collaboration, focusing on the structural framework of the "20-year cycle of change" in Korea-Japan relations and the possibilities for future-oriented cooperation. Professor Lee guided the discussion, starting from his personal experiences and expanding into broader discourse. He also expanded the discussion from that of Korea-Japan relations to Northeast Asia, examining the influence of the “China factor.”
He also highlighted the potential for increased cooperation between Korea and Japan in response to natural disasters, such as the Great East Japan Earthquake. The session raised the necessity of improving inter-Korean and North Korea–Japan relations amid tensions involving North Korea and China, and discussed the evolving perceptions of China in various countries and the need for multifaceted responses.
The seminar further examined the strategic context of Korea-China-Japan relations as seen from the perspectives of ASEAN, Europe, and the US, and addressed the issue of role coordination between Korea and Japan amid US’s local interventions. In closing, the presenter stressed the importance of critically reflecting on historical issues in Korea-Japan relations at the civic and student levels, overcoming prejudices, and actively pursuing future-oriented dialogue.
