Minister Yoon Inchon Appoints Popular Japanese Actor Kentaro Sakaguchi as Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism

On May 13, Yoon Inchon, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, appointed popular Japanese actor Kentaro Sakaguchi (34) as an Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism during the "Korea Day" commemorative event held at Expo Hall at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai World Expo in Osaka, Japan.

Sakaguchi is known as a leading pro-Korean actor with a deep affection for Korean culture. Last year, he appeared in the Korea-Japan co-produced drama "Things That Come After Love," gaining a familiar image among Korean viewers.

Yoon Inchon, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, is taking a commemorative photo after presenting a certificate of appointment to actor Kentaro Sakaguchi at the Korean Tourism Honorary Ambassador appointment ceremony held at Expo Hall, Yumeshima Expo Site, Osaka, Japan, on the occasion of "Korea Day" at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai World Expo on the 13th.
Photo by Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Minister Yoon presented Sakaguchi with the certificate of appointment, stating, "I hope Mr. Sakaguchi will play a role in helping the youth of both countries move forward together toward the future," and asked him to serve as a bridge for cultural exchange between Korea and Japan. Minister Yoon then expressed his gratitude in Japanese, saying, "I really like Mr. Sakaguchi" and "Thank you very much for taking on the role of Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism."

Sakaguchi replied, "At first, I hesitated when I received the offer, but after working in Korea, I thought there might be things I could do as an ambassador, so I accepted. I am honored to serve as a bridge between two countries with different cultures."

Minister Yoon recommended that Japanese people visit smaller regional cities in Korea rather than major metropolitan areas. He said, "In November, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit will be held in Gyeongju, which is similar to Kyoto in Japan. I recommend cities where you can feel the local atmosphere, such as Gyeongju, where you can experience the history of the Silla Dynasty, or Gongju, which was the capital of Baekje, rather than the bustling big cities."

Sakaguchi also said, "I love history, so I would like to visit small Korean cities with beautiful scenery like Kyoto in Japan," expressing his desire to visit the cities recommended by Minister Yoon.

After the appointment ceremony, Sakaguchi held a talk session with approximately 1,600 Japanese fans who filled the venue.

Sakaguchi cited "Hangang ramen" as his most memorable experience while working in Korea. He said, "Eating ramen by the Hangang River felt special. Even though it was the same ramen, it tasted better. I also enjoy kalguksu, gomtang, and grilled meat," he added.