September 01, 2008

A forum for scholars and journalists from around the world to explore the expansion of the role of Asian nations such as South Korea, China and Japan in the international community and subsequent changes in U.S. policies, launched yesterday in Seoul.

The two-day J-Global Forum, titled “New Asia: America’s Role,” began with an opening dinner at the Shilla Hotel. Sponsored by the JoongAng Ilbo and the Yumin Cultural Foundation, this year’s forum is the 11th of its kind. To mark the 10th anniversary of the Asia-Europe Press Forum last year, the event changed its name to the J-Global Forum and expanded to invite specialists from around the world.

In addition to conference invitees, JoongAng Ilbo Chairman Hong Seok-hyun, Prime Minister Han Seung-soo and other dignitaries attended the dinner.

“This forum is well-timed as Asia is experiencing dynamic changes and the U.S. presidential election is drawing nearer,” said Han. “I am confident that the reinforced alliance between Korea and the United States will contribute greatly in opening the new future of Asia.”

Today’s session will feature discussions and presentations by 30 panels from seven countries, including Germany, the United States, Japan and China. Keynote speakers at the forum are Representative Eni Faleomavaega, chairman of the U.S. House Asia-Pacific Subcommittee; Representative Chung Mong-joon of Korea’s Grand National Party; Wang Jisi, dean of the School of International Studies at Peking University; Yasuhisa Shiozaki, a lawmaker from Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party; Yoichi Funabashi, editor-in-chief and columnist of Japan’s Asahi Shimbun; and Kenzo Fujisue, a lawmaker from Japan’s Democratic Party.

By Kang Chan-ho JoongAng Ilbo/ Ser Myo-ja Staff Reporter [myoja@joongang.co.kr]