The leaders of Korea and Japan have attended receptions in each of their own capitals to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The events were hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Seoul and by the Korean Embassy in Tokyo.

President Park Geun-hye appeared at Seoul's anniversary reception on June 22 at the Westin Chosun, stressing that, “We should make this year a turning point for both countries, to move forward toward a future of new cooperation and a future of co-prosperity.”

“This is also our obligation for future generations. We should unload the heavy burden of history, which has been the biggest obstacle in our bilateral ties, with the goal of reconciliation and co-prosperity,” the president added.



President Park went on to say that, “This year is a historical year for Seoul and Tokyo to begin a new future together. As the old saying goes, ‘Without belief, you can’t stand,' (無信不立) which means that nothing is more important than building trust and friendship between the two peoples.”

“There’s also a saying that, ‘The dream of an individual is nothing but a personal dream, but the dreams of everyone will come true for sure.’ Hopefully, the two nations will continue on their journey toward reconciliation, a journey on which they have been since 1965. I also hope that both peoples will join the journey, too, dreaming a dream of a new future for bilateral ties,” she said, wrapping up her speech.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, meanwhile, attended an anniversary reception at the Sheraton Miyako Hotel in Tokyo. “Korea and Japan signed the treaty a half-century ago to open a new chapter in their bilateral relations,” said the prime minister, stressing that Seoul and Tokyo are the, “most important neighbors,” and that they share a common belief in trusting each other and working together.

“The two countries share many strategic advantages. Strengthened cooperation between Korea and Japan, and, furthermore, strengthened trilateral cooperation between Korea, the U.S. and Japan, would surely ensure regional peace and stability across the Asian continent,” the Japanese leader emphasized.

“Let’s look back on the 50 years of development in our friendship, look ahead to the next 50 years and hold our hands together to begin a new era. I will join forces with President Park.”



By Wi Tack-whan, Sohn JiAe
Korea.net Staff Writers
Photos: Cheong Wa Dae
whan23@korea.kr