By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Japanese Ambassador to Korea Koichi Mizushima visited the Gyeongju City Hall on Nov. 7 and discussed future-oriented exchanges between Korea and Japan with Mayor Joo Nak-young of Gyeonggju City.
 
This is Ambassador Mizushima's first visit to Gyeongju since his appointment. Since his appointment in April of this year, Ambassador Mizushima has been conducting various activities to promote bilateral relations between Japan and Korea.

Meanwhile, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, is moving to strengthen exchange and cooperation with Japan, just over a year ahead of the 2025 APEC Gyeongju Summit.
 
Mayor Joo welcomed Ambassador Mizushima to Gyeongju and exchanged views on current issues, including the 2025 APEC Summit in Gyeongju and the ongoing Japan Week 2024.
 
Ambassador Mizushima then visited Gyeongju Nazarewon, which has served as a resting place for Japanese grandmothers for more than 50 years, to encourage officials, and toured the Gyeongju Hwabaek Convention Center and accommodation, which will be the main venue for the APEC Summit.
 
Ambassador Mizushima expressed his wish for the success of next year's APEC Summit in Gyeongju and offered his embassy's support.
 
Mayor Joo Nak-young said, “We look forward to establishing Gyeongju as a symbolic stage for Korea-Japan exchanges through Japan Week.”