#Japan #Tokyo #WEBTOON #Manga #Korea-Japan

Celebrating 60 Years of Korea-Japan Relations

In recognition of the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan, the Korea Foundation Tokyo Office, in collaboration with the Japan Foundation Seoul Japanese Culture Center, is set to host the "Korea-Japan Cultural Dialogue: Exploring the Boundless Possibilities of Creation through Manga and Webtoons." This significant event will take place on September 24, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Shibuya Hikarie 8/Court in Tokyo.

Since the official normalization of relations in 1965, both nations have fostered a variety of exchanges that have blossomed, especially at the citizen-to-citizen level. As of 2025, the rapport between the two countries has reached unprecedented heights, showcasing an increasing interest and goodwill toward one another as evidenced by recent surveys and a record number of reciprocal visits.

The Korea-Japan Cultural Dialogue Secretariat is eager to facilitate even more connections among people through culture in this significant year. The inaugural event will focus on the topics of manga and webtoons, pivotal cultural exports from both nations. Attendees can expect dynamic discussions that invite diverse creators from both sides to share their experiences and insights, aiming to encourage cooperation and solidarity among the next generation.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Korea-Japan Cultural Dialogue - Exploring Boundless Possibilities in Creation through Manga and Webtoons
• - Date and Time: September 24, 2025, 19:00 - 20:30
• - Venue: Shibuya Hikarie 8/Court

- Address: 2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-8510, Japan
- Access: Shibuya Hikarie Access

• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Registration: Opens on August 21, 2025, at 12:00, on a first-come, first-served basis, available at Registration Link.

Speakers

The event will feature prominent figures from both countries:

• - Korean Guest: Park In-ha

Chairman of the Seoul Webtoon Academy, Park has been instrumental in establishing and leading Korea's first dedicated webtoon education institute. He writes for several newspapers and magazines, analyzing the evolving webtoon market and its trends, as well as the intersection with technologies like VR and AI.

• - Japanese Guests:

- Takuya Koroku: As a director and CXO at Number Nine, Takuya plays a crucial role in supporting sustainable creative activities for manga authors, focusing on digital publishing, editing, and marketing. Previously a comic editor, his insights bridge paper and digital media.
- Sumito Oowara: After debuting in 2016 with "Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!", Sumito has continued to engage audiences through monthly publications while their work underwent multiple adaptations into TV and film.

Moderator

• - Kim Seong-won: A cultural entrepreneur and advocate of cross-cultural dialogue, Kim is based in Tokyo after accumulating experience in advertising and academia in the UK.

Organizers

This event is organized by the Korea Foundation Tokyo Office and co-hosted by the Japan Foundation Seoul Japanese Culture Center, with the operational management handled by the Korea-Japan Cultural Dialogue Secretariat.

Both the Korea Foundation and Japan Foundation share a commitment to promoting international cultural exchanges, enhancing friendship, and fostering a deeper understanding between the people of Korea and Japan.

We invite all interested parties to participate in this meaningful dialogue aiming to strengthen cultural bonds and explore the future potential of collaboration in the realms of manga and webtoons. Join us and be a part of a cultural journey that transcends borders!