By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Governor Kim Tae-heum of Chungcheongnam-do Province received Japanese Ambassador to Korea Mizushima Koichi at the provincial government office on April 11 and discussed ways to expand exchanges and cooperation between local governments in Korea and Japan.

The meeting between Kim and Ambassador Mizushima was held to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Korea and Japan, and to discuss practical ways to expand friendly and cooperative relations between local governments in various fields, including economic, cultural and human exchanges.

“It is important for Korea and Japan to respond to global challenges together, revitalize exchanges between future generations, and further strengthen mutual understanding and trust,” Kim said.

Governor Kim also introduced international-scale events to be held in the province, such as the 2025-2026 Chungnam Visit Year and the 2026 Taean International Horticulture and Healing Expo, and called for Japan's interest and participation.

Meanwhile, the province has been conducting active exchange and cooperation activities with Kumamoto, Nara, and Shizuoka prefectures in Japan, which have long and unwavering friendship with Baekje.

This year, Kumamoto Prefecture is celebrating its 42nd anniversary of sisterhood, while Nara Prefecture has been in friendship and cooperation for 14 years and Shizuoka Prefecture for 12 years.

The prefecture will continue to work with Japanese exchange municipalities and private organizations to lead the two countries' shared prosperity and promote practical international exchange and cooperation projects that the people of Chungcheongnam-do can experience.

Prior to his visit to the provincial capital, Ambassador Mizushima toured the Samsung Display factory in Asan and delivered a lecture on “Japan's Security Policy” to security course students at Nonsan National Defense University.