On January 26, 2023, the Imperial Hotel in Osaka set the stage for meaningful connections between South Korean officials and the overseas Jeju community during the New Year gathering organized by the Kansai Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Association. Approximately 200 attendees, including prominent figures from Jeju, gathered to celebrate shared heritage and discuss ways to contribute to the development of Jeju Island.
Governor Oh Young-hoon emphasized the event’s significance, stating, "Today's splendid development of Jeju would have been difficult without the collective power of the Kansai residents present here." This gathering served as not just a festive occasion but also as a platform to express gratitude for the contributions made by Jeju residents living abroad. The event was filled with various activities, including speeches, cultural performances, and the presentation of gifts, all aimed at reinforcing the bonds between Jeju and its overseas community.
Alongside Governor Oh, notable attendees included Go Dong-rim, president of the Kansai Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Association, and other local dignitaries such as Jeju Council Speaker Lee Sang-bong, Education Superintendent Kim Kwang-soo, and University of Jeju President Kim Il-hwan. These representatives exemplified their commitment to fostering cooperation with the Jeju residents living abroad.
The gathering was marked by heartfelt moments, showcasing the dedication of overseas Jeju residents who, even from afar, contributed to the growth of their homeland. Attendees honored the sacrifices made by earlier generations who established deep connections with their roots. Go Dong-rim remarked, "The heartfelt love for our hometown by the first-generation immigrants has established the strong bond connecting Jeju residents overseas with their homeland."
Governor Oh took the opportunity to address support for Jeju residents applying for compensation related to historical events, particularly referencing the 4·3 incident. He stated, "We have stationed staff at the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Osaka to lower the threshold for applying for 4·3 compensation, and as of last year, we provided compensation to 993 victims and their families totaling 7.79 billion won." His vow to assist these families was met with appreciation from attendees, showing the community's desire to uphold their legacy and support future generations.
Reflecting on these engagements, Governor Oh confirmed his commitment to maintaining these ties, ensuring the contributions of the first-generation migrants are recognized and remembered. “I will continue to make efforts to keep this bond for the next generation,” he asserted.
The cultural performances, including appearances by local artists such as Jeju’s promotional ambassador, garnered enthusiastic responses from the audience, showcasing Jeju's rich artistic heritage. The performances not only provided entertainment but also reinforced the shared identity among attendees, rekindling the spirit of community and collaboration.
This successful New Year gathering not only underlined the potent ties between the government and the Jeju community abroad but also served as a reminder of the importance of cultural connections and historical remembrance as the island continues its pursuit of sustainable development. The event set the tone for future cooperation, with Governor Oh inviting attendees to assist in increasing tourism and enhancing ties with Japanese local governments.
Such events highlight the dynamic relationship between Jeju and its overseas residents, echoing the sentiments of solidarity and commitment to mutual growth. With plans for future collaborations, including increased tourism from Japan, both the local officials and the overseas community seem poised to cultivate their relationship and reinforce the identity shared across different shores.