Chungnam Province staged a K-Pop culture exchange performance in Japan and pursued a export contract valued at $5.17 million. On the 24th, the provinces of Chungnam and Nara Prefecture held the cultural exchange at the Nara 100-Year Hall to mark the 15th anniversary of their friendship agreement. Governor Kim Tae-hyeum returned from Japan on the 27th after the events.

Governor Kim and Makoto Yamashita, the governor of Nara Prefecture, along with local residents and the Japanese diaspora attended about 2,000 people. EnSain, Eleven, Fiesta, and artists Yoonhee and Kim Dahyeon performed on stage. Chungnam’s K-Pop Choir, Sangmyung University, Buyeo Chungnam Gugak Orchestra, and Japan’s International High School and traditional Gugak groups also performed.

On the 25th, a seminar titled “Japan-Korea Cultural Seminar” revisited the historical ties between Baekje and Asuka, with around 300 residents and experts in attendance. Governor Kim delivered a lecture at Osaka Yamato University on “The Future of a Japan-Korea Collaboration Carried by Youth,” urging participation in joint programs between local governments. The two leaders reportedly met for three consecutive days, sharing substantial portions of their schedules and maintaining close communication.

Earlier, Governor Kim visited Osaka’s New Otani Hotel export fair to vouch for the quality of Chungnam products and promote sales. Local companies conducted 119 consultations worth $17.56 million and pursued export contracts worth $5.17 million. A provincial official said their focus on visiting Nara Prefecture and broad exchanges presented a new model of local diplomacy.