Kyushu University hosts 2025 Korea-Japan Youth Leaders Forum

On January 23, 2025, Kyushu University's Ito Campus hosted the Korea-Japan-Youth Leaders Forum, welcoming a visiting delegation of about 50 people from Korea. This forum has been held annually for over 20 years to foster exchange and deepen mutual understanding between the youth of the two countries. This marks the second time Kyushu University has hosted the event.

The day started with a campus tour by students (Q-Mate) from Kyushu University. Following the tour, Dr. Yoichi Tsuchiya, an academic researcher at the Center for Organic Photonics and Electronics Research (OPERA), gave a lecture titled "OLED: Lighting the future of society and science." The lecture introduced Korean participants to the latest research findings, and after the lecture, many students actively asked questions.

The presentation session follows, with students actively engaging in discussions on economic and cultural topics.

For the first topic, "Economy," Kentaro Matsuda from the School of Engineering discussed the proposed Korea-Japan Tunnel Project, highlighting its potential to boost tourism, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. In response, Eunjae Sung from Korea raised concerns about the environmental problems caused by the tunnel construction. She suggested conducting an environmental impact assessment (EIA) and providing incentives to companies to reduce environmental risks.
Next, Min Hyun from Korea proposed a Japan-Korea collaboration that integrates Korean AI technology with Japanese robot technology to maintain technological competitiveness. In response to Hyun's proposal, Kenta Furuno from the School of Economics pointed out that the two countries should consider strategies to make the most of their highly trained professionals.

On the next topic, "Culture," Rinka Nakao from the School of Agriculture suggested increasing short-term and hybrid programs to strengthen cultural exchange. Jeongmin Park from Korea proposed fostering cooperation in the music industry between Japan and Korea by establishing a joint production studio and promoting artist exchange programs to overcome language and cultural barriers. In response, Aoi Kuroki from the School of Agriculture noted how the exchange program could affect the music industries of both countries.

The presentation session was conducted entirely in English, and after the presentations, Korean participants actively engaged in a lively Q&A with the speakers. This provided a valuable opportunity for students from both countries to interact and exchange ideas face-to-face.

After the presentation session, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed, officially confirming the Korea-Japan Youth Leaders Forum as an annually event. This will provide an opportunity for the youth of both countries to continuously interact and deepen mutual understanding.

We hope that this forum will further promote exchange between Japanese and Korean students and contribute to lasting friendships in the future.