Japanese drummer Takeshi Chiyozono performs at the 7th Peace Design Forum.

On Saturday, November 2, the 7th Peace Design Forum took place at the Bunkyo Civic Center in Tokyo, bringing together thought leaders and peacebuilding advocates under the theme “New Perspectives and Approaches to Peacebuilding in Northeast Asia.” The event began with a powerful performance by renowned Japanese drummer Takeshi Chiyozono, whose rhythmic beats set a unifying tone, preparing the audience for the insightful discussions ahead.

The forum was divided into two segments: a series of expert lectures and an engaging panel discussion with the audience. Each speaker offered unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for peace in the region, creating a dynamic space for dialogue and reflection.

Yoji Gomi: Unpacking the Legacy of the Korean War and Japan’s Role in Regional Peace

Yoji Gomi

Yoji Gomi, a journalist with deep expertise in the Korean Peninsula, kicked off the forum with a sobering analysis of the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. He highlighted the tragic toll of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has already claimed over 70,000 lives, and the significant impact of North Korea’s involvement. Drawing historical connections, Gomi pointed to the Korean War as a pivotal moment that shaped Japan’s current position in Northeast Asia. Not only did Japan benefit economically from wartime procurement, but Japanese soldiers also fought in the conflict.

Gomi emphasized that the Korean War’s legacy still influences Japan today, as its military bases remain critical to the region’s security. He called for Japan to take a more active role in bringing peace to the Korean Peninsula, advocating for the official end of the Korean War and urging Japan to reassess its position in regional geopolitics. He also underscored the importance of strengthening ties with South Korea, particularly in addressing human rights violations in North Korea and fostering international dialogue for peace.

Kang Yong-ji: A Call for Serious Dialogue on North Korea’s Nuclear Threat

Kang Yong-ji

Next, Kang Yong-ji, Chairman of the East Asia Research Institute, shared his vision for the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula—a cause he has championed for over three decades. Kang cited Robert Gallucci, a former U.S. policymaker on North Korea, who declared that the U.S. has “failed in its North Korea policy for 30 years.” This failure, Kang argued, has escalated the risk of North Korea using nuclear weapons, a threat that could destabilize not just the Korean Peninsula but the entire East Asian region.

Kang urged Japan to take a long, hard look at its own role in fostering peace in Northeast Asia, especially as tensions with North Korea continue to rise. He stressed the need for genuine, sustained dialogue to prevent military conflict and ensure a peaceful future for the region.

Aya Goto: The Korean Dream and the Power of Shared Vision

The final speaker, Aya Goto, Representative Director of GPF Japan, brought a unique perspective to the forum by framing the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza as “identity-based conflicts.” She explained how the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) advocates for peacebuilding through a shared vision of common identity—a concept that she believes holds promise for Northeast Asia as well.

Goto introduced the Korean Dream, a vision for the peaceful unification of the Korean Peninsula based on the principle of Hongik Ingan, which translates to the idea of building a nation that benefits humanity as a whole. She highlighted the significance of 2025, a landmark year that will mark both the 80th anniversary of Korea’s National Liberation Day and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and South Korea. Goto expressed hope that these milestones could serve as catalysts for realizing the Korean Dream and bring about lasting peace in the region.

Peace Design Forum features a panel of speakers and Q&A discussion.

Panel Discussion: Bridging Differences and Finding Common Ground

Following the expert talks, the forum transitioned to an interactive panel discussion, moderated by Kazuhiro Handa of GPF Japan. The panel provided attendees with an opportunity to engage directly with the speakers, asking questions on topics ranging from universal values to the potential benefits of reunification.

The experts all agreed that the key to peace in Northeast Asia lies in identifying commonalities among the nations involved. Whether through shared values or mutual economic benefits, they emphasized that the goal of reunification should not just be the political integration of the Korean Peninsula, but the creation of a peaceful, prosperous, and interconnected region.

The discussions highlighted the importance of cultivating a shared vision for the future, one that transcends historical grievances and focuses on collective growth. The forum’s concluding moments underscored that finding common ground and embracing universal values will be crucial in paving the way for lasting peace in Northeast Asia.

Looking Ahead: A Call for New Perspectives

The 7th Peace Design Forum was not only an informative event but also a call to action—a reminder that the path to peace requires fresh thinking, bold diplomacy, and a commitment to dialogue. As tensions in the region persist, it is clear that new perspectives and collaborative approaches are essential to building a peaceful and stable future for Northeast Asia. The forum provided a valuable space to reflect on past lessons and chart new paths forward in the pursuit of peace.