[Unofficial Translation]

It is a great pleasure to meet you here at Keio University, a renowned institution for its academic tradition of pragmatism and openness. I am delighted to have this opportunity to share with you my thoughts on the significance of my visit to Japan and the future that our two countries should build together.

My visit to Japan, Korea’s closest neighbor, to work towards normalizing the strained bilateral relations holds immense significance. In particular, as I wrap up my schedule in Japan, it is truly meaningful to meet all of you, the future generation. I have been looking forward to this moment.

Since the normalization of diplomatic relations in 1965, Korea and Japan have actively cooperated in various fields including economy, foreign affairs, security, politics, culture and so on. Our two countries share cultural traits and sentiments that are incomparably more similar than those we share with any other country. Moreover, our people-to-people exchanges in the private sector are very vibrant and active.

Korea and Japan, two close neighbors, are liberal democracies that share a foundation built on universal values such as freedom, human rights and the rule of law. This fact in itself holds a special meaning. This signifies that our two countries must assume our leadership roles together as we strive towards the common goal of peace and prosperity in the international community through solidarity and cooperation, transcending mere adherence to international norms and mutual respect.

We firmly believe, as world history has repeatedly shown, that the pursuit of universal values is not only essential for ensuring economic prosperity but also for promoting world peace. After World War II, Japan achieved economic prosperity based on its strong faith in liberal democracy and a market economy. Moreover, as one of the world’s largest donors to developing countries, Japan has also fulfilled its responsibilities and contributed to the international community.

Similarly, the foundation of universal values such as freedom, human rights, and the rule of law, has enabled Korea not only to achieve rapid economic growth but also to strive to fulfill its roles and responsibilities in advancing global peace and prosperity.

I believe that it is crucial for Korea and Japan, which share these universal values, to work together to improve bilateral relations and mutual development for the common interests of both countries as well as for world peace and prosperity.

In particular, for the future generation who are present here today, such mutual development is of great importance. Governments and leaders in private sector from both countries must come together to facilitate active engagement and communication among young people in various fields.

Prime Minister Kishida and I will do everything to make this possible.

As you begin to participate in mutual exchanges and collaborate with the youth of Korea freely and vigorously, it will not take long before the trust and friendship between our young generations produce tangible synergy.

Fellow students of Keio University,

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Kim Dae-jung-Obuchi Declaration. This morning, I met Representative Yuko Obuchi, who also serves as a member of the Japan-Korea Parliamentarians’ Union. In 1998, here in Tokyo 25 years ago, then President Kim Dae-jung stressed that an unfortunate period that lasted less than 50 years should not render a 1,500-year history of exchanges and cooperation meaningless.

I would like to emphasize that future generations, including all of you, represent the future of Korea and Japan. It is my sincere hope that all of you think deeply about your future and actively engage with young Koreans.

As you know, the Meiji era thinker Okakura Tenshin said, “Bravery is the key into life.” Politicians from our two countries mustered the courage to open the door to a new era 25 years ago believing they must not leave a cumbersome legacy to their descendants.

Let us all gather a little more courage to make good friends and create a better future. As a responsible politician of the Republic of Korea, I will do my best with courage for a bright future for the younger generations in both of our countries.

Thank you.