Welcome Reception: Japanese and Korean teachers actively exchange views
At the welcome reception on January 21, Mr. Masakazu Tokura, Chairman of Keidanren, expressed his hope that each member of the group of Korean teachers would experience Japan through visits to Japanese schools and companies, lectures, and cultural events, and become a bridge between Japan and Korea.

Following the addresses by the guests of honor, Ms. Eri Arfiya, Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr. Nobuyuki Koga, Chairman of the Japan-Korea Cultural Foundation, and Mr. Kang Myeong-il, Korean Minister to Japan, Mr. Dong Seok Choi, a teacher at Incheon International High School, gave a remark on behalf of the Korean teachers. Mr. Choi pointed out that it is important for high school students who will lead the next generation in both countries to have good perceptions of one another and to actively interact as partners in the future society. He emphasized that this would be possible if high school students could meet teachers who have positive thoughts and understanding about Korea and Japan. He also stated that through the valuable experiences of the exchange programs, Japanese and Korean high school teachers can gain a deeper understanding of each other and lead the future generations of both countries to build more positive and constructive relationships.

After the reception, over 40 Japanese high school teachers who visited Korea in August 2024 engaged in lively roundtable discussions with the Korean high school teachers.

Expert Lectures: Learn about the Japanese economy, the East Asian situation, and education-related issues in Japan
In the expert lectures, the teachers learned about the Japanese economy, the international situation in East Asia, and the current state of education in Japan, respectively, from Professor Sayuri Shirai of the Faculty of Policy Management at Keio University, Professor Junya Nishino of the Faculty of Law at Keio University, and Professor Tatsuya Hotta of the Graduate School of Education at Tokyo Gakugei University. They also had a chance to exchange views with the lecturers.

Visits to Leading Japanese Companies: Experience the dynamism of the Japanese economy
The teachers visited Fujitsu Technology Park to see an early-stage relay-type automatic computer and other equipment. They learned about the technology development of the latest supercomputers, such as “K” and “Fugaku,” as well as the human resources and organizational culture that support the state-of-the-art products.

At the Railway Museum, East Japan Railway Company explained their business, its philosophy of “aiming for ultimate safety levels and committing to helping customers and people in communities to realize enriched lives,” and the history of Japanese railways. The teachers had the opportunity to see some spectacular exhibits, such as actual railway vehicles and other railway equipment.

Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. gave a presentation on their business expansion through their strategic alliance with the pharmaceutical giant Roche of Switzerland, its drug discovery capabilities for new drug development, and their technology-driven research strategy.

School Visits: Recognize the differences and similarities between Japanese and Korean education by visiting three schools that have distinctive features
At Tokyo Metropolitan Nishi High School, the Korean teachers observed classes and had discussions with the teachers and students.

At Hiroo Gakuen Junior and Senior High School, they learned and discussed the educational issues in Japan, initiatives by universities, and the internationalization of higher education in Japan.

An active exchange took place at Tokyo Denki University Junior and Senior School, including classroom observations and discussions with the teachers and students. Candid conversations with students over lunch in the cafeteria allowed the Korean teachers to experience school life through the perspective of food.

The Korean teachers commented that these school visits deepened their understanding of the Japanese education system.

Through our program of mutual exchange, a close network of Japanese and Korean teachers is steadily being built. Utilizing this valuable network, we will continue this program and hope that high school students—who will lead the next generation—will foster positive and constructive ties between Japan and Korea.

Around 50 Japanese high school teachers are scheduled to visit South Korea in August 2025.