Japanese Culture to be Introduced

Japanese culture, which has long been prohibited in Korea, will gradually be open to the general public, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade said on October 11.
Minister Hong Soon Young appeared on a TV talk show and stated, 'Cultural products will enter gradually but somewhat fast. President Kim Dae Jung promised the lifting of the ban during his state visit to Japan, and there is no big hinge in importing it. The kinds of programs will be decided in a Korea-Japan cultural committee.'
A government source commented on the initiative, 'As a first step, bilaterally produced films and internationally prized movies will be targettd.' Asked about Japan's entrance to the Security Council of the United Nations, Hong said, 'With an open mind, we will be watching the UN's attitude on enlarging membership.'
Regarding a single Asian currency, he added, 'That problem was not discussed this time but I speculate the thing is worth consultations some day.'