A Venue for Korea-Japan Medical Exchange Unfolds in Daegu

A recent Korea-Japan medical exchange event held in Daegu Metropolitan City has captured the attention of many. This event served as an opportunity for Japan's leading medical scholars to be captivated by South Korea's cutting-edge medical infrastructure and profound traditional culture. Hosted by the Daegu Metropolitan Medical Association, the event invited a delegation from the Association of Korean Residents in Japan, who engaged in a packed three-day schedule.

A Model of Grassroots Diplomacy in the Medical Field

This event was held in conjunction with the 80th Anniversary Academic Conference and is being hailed as a 'model case for grassroots diplomacy,' demonstrating the strong trust between the Korean and Japanese medical communities, going beyond mere encounters. Under the planning of the Daegu Metropolitan Medical Association's Overseas Exchange Cooperation Group, prominent figures from the Japanese medical field visited Korea in large numbers to participate in various programs.

The delegation visited historical sites in Daegu, listening intently to the stories of the National Debt Redemption Movement, which marked the beginning of the sovereignty defense movement in the late Joseon Dynasty, and the great spirit of national salvation shown by the citizens of Daegu. Recognizing that a deep understanding of history offers direction for the future, they expressed profound respect for the historical footsteps of Daegu's citizens.

Experiencing K-Culture and K-Medical

The second day featured experiences of K-Culture and K-Medical. Upon visiting the Daegu Ganseong Museum of Art, the delegation was deeply impressed, witnessing Korea's national treasures firsthand. The subtle scent of ink from calligraphy and painting, especially felt during the exhibition commemorating the 240th anniversary of Chusa Kim Jeong-hui's birth, deeply moved them.

In the afternoon, they participated in MediExpo Korea 2026, experiencing Korea's innovative advanced medical equipment and digital healthcare solutions, confirming the global competitiveness of South Korea's medical industry. These experiences provided a significant opportunity to share practical concerns and academic insights between the medical communities of both countries.

Passionate Discussions in the Korean and Japanese Medical Fields

At the academic conference celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Daegu Metropolitan Medical Association, discussions continued on pressing current issues in the medical field, such as aging populations and medical care for foreign visitors. Lee Woon-joo, advisor to the Association of Korean Residents in Japan, presented on 'Medical Care for Foreign Tourists through the 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo,' offering a future direction for the medical community regarding international events.

In addition, lively debates took place on various topics, with participants sharing insights on the super-aging trend and the latest medical knowledge, fostering progressive discussions. These discussions are expected to greatly contribute to the future development of the Korean and Japanese medical fields.

A Fond Farewell, Yet a Commitment to Continued Exchange

On the final day, the delegation visited the Daegu Modern History Museum, taking time to reflect on Daegu's pivotal role in modern and contemporary history. After the tour, the delegation expressed their deep gratitude at a farewell luncheon hosted by the Daegu Metropolitan Medical Association, bidding a regretful goodbye.

President Min Bok-ki stated, "I am very proud to have invited our colleagues from the Association of Korean Residents in Japan to Daegu and to share K-medical infrastructure and our unique academic achievements." He expressed a commitment to continue striving for the advancement of the Korean and Japanese medical fields and the promotion of friendly relations between the two nations.

The Daegu Metropolitan Medical Association holds regular annual meetings not only with the Association of Korean Residents in Japan but also with the Kobe Medical Association and the Hyogo Prefectural Health Insurance Association in Japan, discussing various pressing issues in the medical field. Through these efforts, they are further expanding the global network of Korean medicine.