As part of the Planning and Implementation course, students organized a panel discussion on December 18, 2025, titled “Living in Between -Stories of Zainichi Koreans.” The panel discussion was facilitated by Mr. Daiki Yanagawa, Hitotsubashi University Graduate School of Social Sciences PhD student. The three panelists, Mr. Hwang-gi Kim (Hitotsubashi University Graduate School of Social Sciences Master student), Mr. Daisuke Nakagawa (Kanagawa University Faculty of Cross-Cultural Japanese Studies Bachelor student), and Mr. Hyun-tae Lee (Mindan Student Association), come from various backgrounds in terms of their family, education and Zainichi communities they belong to. 

The discussion was divided into three sections: backgrounds, identities as a Zainichi Korean, and interpersonal relationships in Japanese Society. Since their backgrounds are significantly different, the panelists shared various personal experiences, thoughts and views on being Zainichi. Through the event, the audience were able to gain broader perspectives on Zainichi Koreans regarding their historical/social backgrounds and diversity in themselves, which made them realize how non-homogenous the Japanese Society actually is. 

The event included Q&A sessions where the audience asked questions from a variety of perspectives, such as how the panelists feel about participating in the event or how they perceive their strength in living as Zainichi Koreans. It enabled the audience to be more engaged in the event and made the event more thought-provoking.

We sincerely appreciate Mr Yanagawa and the three panelists for sharing their various views based on personal experiences and expanding our horizons.