By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo
The Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Korea and Japan held a lighting ceremony at Namsan Seoul Tower and Tokyo Tower on February 15, 2025, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
At 6:30 PM on February 15, the lighting of Namsan Seoul Tower began, with the upper section illuminated in alternating red and blue - the colors representing the national flags of Korea and Japan.
Meanwhile, the lower section featured a projection of the official 60th-anniversary logo, which was selected through a public contest, drawing significant attention.
On the same day, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also contributed to the celebratory atmosphere by lighting up Tokyo Tower in red and blue, along with the phrase “JAPAN-KOREA.”
Kim Hong Kyun, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, who attended the Namsan Seoul Tower lighting ceremony, stated in his remarks, “With the light symbolizing the 60th anniversary brightly illuminating the heart of Seoul, I hope this moment serves as an opportunity for both nations to join hands and envision a better future together.”
He also emphasized the importance of government efforts, as well as the interest and support of various sectors, in advancing Korea-Japan relations.
Mizushima Koichi, the Japanese Ambassador to Korea, who attended as representative of the Japanese government, remarked, “Despite many challenges, the relationship between our two nations has made significant progress across various fields since taking a great step forward 60 years ago.”
He added, “We will continue to keep the light of friendship and trust shining so that we can move forward toward a better future together.”
Following this, an award ceremony was held to recognize Kim Cho-hyang, the winner of the grand prize in the logo contest commemorating the 60th anniversary of the normalization of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations. She was presented with a certificate signed by Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi.
The event drew attention with the participation of numerous representatives from Korea-Japan friendship organizations and individuals symbolizing the strong ties between the two nations.
Notably, Shin Yoon-chan, Honorary Chairman of the LSH Asia Scholarship Foundation and the mother of the late hero Lee Soo-hyun - who lost his life in 2001 while saving a Japanese passenger at Shin-Okubo Station, Tokyo - was present. In addition, young individuals interested in fostering Korea-Japan exchanges attended, further highlighting the significance of the occasion.
To mark the 60th anniversary of the normalization of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to collaborate with Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to organize a variety of joint commemorative events.
It is also encouraging other government agencies and provincial governments to hold related events. Furthermore, the Foreign Ministry will continue efforts to foster a celebratory atmosphere throughout the year by approving the use of the anniversary logo and slogan for privately organized events.
