Jeonnam Province and Kochi Prefecture, Japan, Collaborate on Cruise and Airport Route Development

Discussion of Exchange Projects Including Gopchang-gim Export

Jeonnam Japan Office has agreed to cooperate on developing cruise and airport routes ahead of the 10th anniversary of sister city exchanges next year with Kochi Prefecture, its international sister city. Provided by Jeonnam Province

The Jeonnam Japan Office announced on the 9th that it has discussed cooperative projects with Kochi Prefecture, its international sister city, ahead of the 10th anniversary of their sister city exchanges next year. These projects include the development of cruise and airport routes, as well as the export of gopchang-gim (premium seaweed).

Jang Daeyeon, Director of the Jeonnam Japan Office, and Hamada Seiji, Governor of Kochi Prefecture, met on May 7 at the Korean Pavilion of the 2025 Japan Osaka Expo in Osaka, where they reaffirmed their commitment to a high level of friendly cooperation.

During this meeting, the Jeonnam Japan Office proposed the development of cruise and airport routes connecting Kochi Prefecture and Jeonnam as cooperative projects.

The cruise product is a luxury marine tourism program with a four-night, five-day itinerary, departing from Kochi Prefecture in Japan and making stops at Kagoshima, Yeosu, Wando, and Mokpo. The cruise focuses on the history, culture, arts, and tourism of each city.

The proposal to establish a new direct flight connecting Kochi Ryoma International Airport, which will open next year, and Muan International Airport also attracted significant interest from Kochi Prefecture.

In addition, given the high level of interest in premium gopchang-gim, a seaweed product from Jeonnam known for its exceptional taste and aroma and produced in the region with the highest seafood output in Japan, the office explored the possibility of exporting gopchang-gim as a pilot project targeting seaweed enthusiasts in Japan with a high-quality, premium pricing strategy.

Hamada Seiji, Governor of Kochi Prefecture, stated, "Just as the theme of the Korean Pavilion is 'Gathering Hearts,' I hope that Jeonnam Province and Kochi Prefecture can unite their hearts and move toward a better future together. Next year marks the 10th anniversary of our sister city exchanges, which is highly meaningful. Let us pursue an even higher level of friendly exchanges and cooperation between Korea and Japan."

Director Jang Daeyeon emphasized, "Just as the historical figure Wangin, in the 4th century, greatly contributed to the development of ancient Japanese culture by bringing the Analects of Confucius and the Thousand Character Classic to Japan at the invitation of Emperor Ojin and becoming the prince's mentor, I hope that next year, we can solidify the mutual development of Jeonnam Province and Kochi Prefecture by opening new sea routes connecting Yeosu, Wando, and Mokpo with Kochi Prefecture, as well as new air routes from Kochi Ryoma International Airport to Muan International Airport."

Since launching their sister city exchanges in October 2016, Jeonnam Province and Kochi Prefecture have carried out a variety of international exchange and friendship cooperation projects, including youth exchange programs for high school students, official exchange visits between the two regions, and visits to Jeonnam Province by honorary citizens of Kochi Prefecture.