Yonsei hosted a symposium and workshop in collaboration with Japan’s Ritsumeikan University and Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Yonsei Samsung Library and at the Global Lounge on March 27th. The theme was “KOREA NEXT, JAPAN NEXT: The role of Korean and Japanese youth in the making of a new East Asian world.” Yonsei President Jeong Kap-Young delivered a congratulatory speech which was followed by a presentation on “Korea-Japan Relations after East Japan Earthquake and Further Development” by international scholars representing Korea and Japan. Some of the issues discussed were: “How should cultures be exchanged and what cultures should be created for a shared hopeful future for both countries?” and “What roles should Korea and Japan be responsible for in the rapidly changing East Asian world?” There was also a talk on what is expected of the Korean and Japanese youth who carry the hopes and future of the two countries on their shoulders. From noon, students from the three universities – Yonsei University, Ritsumeikan University and Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University – held discussions on the others’ soft power potential. The Japanese students expressed gratitude for the support shown to Japan during the devastating aftermath of the earthquake. Japanese food, industrial products and traditional culture were also introduced. Kawaguchi Kiyofumi, President of Ritsumeikan University in Tokyo, Japan, said in an opening message that “The East Japan earthquake made us realize the limits of scientific technology and the importance of the relation between nature and humans after we had witnessed the destruction of nuclear power plants by the force of nature.” He hoped that “The Japanese and Korean youth should go forward to create a ‘21st century-type civilization’ that stresses the relation between science and humans.” Professor Yabunaka Mitoji, in a keynote speech, did not fail to mention Japan’s appreciation for Korea’s support. “Koreans sent their consolations by promptly dispatching a rescue team and through a nation-wide fund-raising. Encouraged by the support, the Japanese people are able to earnestly restore the country.” He advised the students that “Korea and Japan hold critical positions in setting up a new set of rules for East Asia. Accordingly, the younger generations of Korea and Japan should actively interact with each other and discuss ways to improve cooperation between the two countries.” The event is a part of the Japanese government campaign “JAPAN NEXT” aiming to actively promote policies inducing recovery and regeneration of Japan after the earthquake.