The Northeast Asian History Foundation carried out the first exchange program of the “2026 Northeast Asia History Exchange Promotion Project” from May 12 to 15, 2026, over four days and three nights, with the aim of fostering a proper understanding of history among young people and promoting friendly cooperation between future generations of Korea and China. Students from Gwangdeok High School in Gwangju, Korea, and Haiyan No.2 Senior High School in China participated in the program, exploring historical sites in Shanghai and Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, while engaging in various exchange activities.

As expressed in the famous line by Tang dynasty poet Wang Bo, “Though far apart, true friends feel close at heart (海内存知己, 天涯若比邻),” the students of both countries built friendships through history and culture, sharing meaningful moments as they envisioned a peaceful future for Northeast Asia together.

■ Tracing the Footsteps of Korea-China Solidarity at Historic Sites

On the first day, the students visited the Shanghai Temporary Government Building of the Republic of Korea, a symbolic site of Korea’s independence movement abroad, where they reflected on the sacrifices and spirit of the independence activists. They also explored Nanjing Road East and the Bund to experience the transformation of modern urban culture.

          

On the second day, the participants traveled to Jiaxing in Zhejiang Province to visit “Kim Gu’s Escape Route” and “Jaecheong Byeolseo,” places associated with Kim Gu’s refuge from Japanese pursuit with the assistance of Chinese supporters. Walking the route together allowed students from both countries to gain a deeper understanding of the history of Korea-China solidarity that shone through difficult times.

          

■ Friendship Blossoming in the Classroom and the Spirit of Harmony in Diversity

On the third day, a full-scale school exchange program was held at Haiyan No.2 Senior High School, where students from both countries participated together in Korean language, history, and English classes, learning about each other’s cultures and communicating openly.

In particular, a special lecture titled “Stories of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in China,” delivered by Gwangdeok High School teacher Song Woo-ram, received enthusiastic responses from the students.

After the classes, students toured the school cafeteria, gymnasium, and vegetable garden to experience daily school life in China. They also participated together in music and art activities. Students from Gwangdeok High School shared that it was an honor to communicate freely without prejudice and to build friendships with their Chinese peers.

          

■ The Path Toward Peace in Northeast Asia Led by Future Generations

This exchange program served as an opportunity to reaffirm the spirit of “Harmony without Uniformity (和而不同),” emphasizing mutual respect and empathy despite differences. Teacher Song Woo-ram remarked that seeing students from both countries communicate so naturally reminded him once again of the importance of exchanges, while also stressing the value of mutual respect and historical preservation.

Beginning with the exchange between Gwangdeok High School and Haiyan No.2 Senior High School, the Northeast Asian History Foundation plans to support exchanges between 33 Korean schools and schools in China and Japan in the future. The Foundation will continue to promote field-oriented history exchange programs so that future generations can build a peaceful Northeast Asian community based on shared historical understanding.