The International IC Association of Japan Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Commemorative Forum
“Half a Century as a Bridge of Reconciliation and Trust – A Path to Peace for the Next Generation”
Tokyo, Japan – October 27, 2025
The International IC Association of Japan marked its 50th anniversary by hosting the 47th IC International Forum on October 26–27. Under the theme “Half a Century as a Bridge of Reconciliation and Trust – A Path to Peace for the Next Generation,” the two-day event brought together participants from across generations—including university students, senior citizens, and leaders from politics, industry, and civil society—to reflect on the Association’s legacy and explore future pathways to peace.
Day 1: Dialogue on Peace and Equality
Venue: Meiji Gakuin University
The first day featured keynote speeches and interactive discussions:
- Ms. Yoshiko Tanaka, Secretary-General of the Campaign for Palestinian Children, shared insights into humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza.
- Col. Yukari Yoshida of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force discussed her experiences and the progress of gender equality initiatives within the military, sparking active engagement from the audience.
- Ms. Anna Okamoto, Director of the International IC Association of Japan reflected on her study abroad experience in South Korea and the value of international exchange.
Participants then joined group discussions on the theme “How can we protect our country?” exchanging ideas across generations.
Day 2: Honoring Five Decades of Impact
Venue: Members’ Office Building of the National Diet
The second day focused on the Association’s historical contributions and future vision:
- Mr. Lee Ju-Young, President of MRA/IC Korea Headquarters, reviewed the movement’s evolution in Korea and announced the launch of “MRA Clubs” as grassroots community organizations.
- Mr. Hironori Yano, Chairman of the Caux Round Table Japan and Honorary Chairman of the International IC Association of Japan, shared his wartime experiences and emphasized the importance of engaging youth in cross-border exchanges.
- Mr. Hirofumi Nakasone, Chairman of the Parliamentary League for the Promotion of International IC and former Foreign Minister, delivered a video message. He recalled that when the International MRA Japan Association was incorporated in 1984, then-Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone (his father) described MRA as “a benefactor of Japan’s postwar return to the international community.”
- Mr. Ken Arimitsu, Representative of the Postwar Compensation Network, highlighted the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and stressed the importance of remembering past lessons and showing empathy toward those still affected by war.
Japanese and Korean participants also engaged in meaningful dialogue on historical perspectives, reinforcing the spirit of reconciliation.
50th Anniversary Commemorative Banquet
Following the forum, a commemorative banquet was held to celebrate the International IC Association of Japan’s 50-year journey. Attendees included:
- Mr. Toru Hashimoto, Honorary Chairman (former Chairman of Mizuho Bank)
- Members of the Parliamentary League for the Promotion of International IC:
- Chairman Mr. Hirofumi Nakasone
- Secretary-General Mr. Hiroyuki Moriyama
- Lawmakers Mr. Koichi Takemasa, Mr. Jiro Hata, Mr. Takeshi Kozu, and Mr. Kiichiro Hatoyama
- Mr. Yukihisa Yujita, Chairman, the international IC association of Japan
Photo (left to right): Lee, Nakasone, Fujita, Hashimoto, Yano, Moriyama, Hatoyama, Takemasa, Hata, Kozu
On the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the International IC Association of Japan we presented letters of gratitude to the following individuals to express our sincere appreciation for their contributions to our organization:
- Mr. CHA Kwang-Sun, Honorary Chairman (former Chairman of MRA/IC Korea)
- Mr. Jens Jonathan Wilhelmsen
Additionally, it was pleasure that the board members of the International IC Association of Japan attended the MRA/IC Korea forum to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan, which took place the week following the 47th International Forum in Japan.
About the International IC Japan Association
Founded in 1975 as the International MRA Japan Association, the organization has played a pivotal role in promoting reconciliation in Asia and the Pacific, improving labor-management relations, and fostering international dialogue. It became a Public Interest Incorporated Association in 2012.
The Association has contributed significantly to Japan-Korea reconciliation, including initiatives that laid the groundwork for the normalization of diplomatic relations in 1965.
Founding leaders included:
- Chairman: Toshiwo Doko (Chairman, Federation of Economic Organizations)
- Vice Chair: Senator Shizue Kato
- Director General: Renzo Yanagisawa (Chairman, National Shipyard Workers Union)
- Director: Yukika Sohma (daughter of Tokyo Mayor Yukio Ozaki, who gifted cherry trees to Washington, D.C.)
Photo (left to right): UK Ambassador Mackenzie, Toshiba Managing Director Takase, Toshiwo Doko
