[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Juhee] "1000 Days of the Osaka Consul General," written by Oh Taegyu, former Osaka Consul General who worked as a journalist for 32 years, has been published. This "field report" records what the author, who has the unique background of being a "journalist-turned-diplomat," saw, felt, spoke about, and thought during his tenure as Osaka Consul General (April 2018 - June 2021).
The Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, has had exchanges with the Korean Peninsula since ancient times, remains the most active area for human exchange today, and is home to the largest concentration of Zainichi Koreans in Japan?three major characteristics. In this regard, it is no exaggeration to call it a "treasure trove of public diplomacy" with the greatest potential for Korea-Japan friendship and cooperation throughout Japan.
With the idea that "the Kansai region should take the lead in Korea-Japan friendship and cooperation," the author engaged extensively with various figures from Japanese local governments, the business community, academia, media, culture, and civic groups. This book contains the author's heartfelt wish to serve as a catalyst and comforter that connects the hearts of citizens of both countries despite difficult Korea-Japan relations, and narrows the distance between Korea, the Zainichi Korean community, and individual members of the community.
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