Although Japan and Korea have a close economic relationship, which is compared to a narrow strip of water, there still exists a considerable gap in politics between both countries. If Japan and Korea should be connected by an undersea tunnel, their relationship would become a closer one like that between the UK and France. Can a Japan-Korea undersea tunnel ever be realized in the 21st century?

It was hoped that the disintegration of the former Soviet Union would dramatically change the international environment in the Sea of Japan Rim Area, and many exchange projects were prepared. However, the subsequent globalization in the economy has made the actual changes much different from those expected. New policies and activities have become necessary.

The "Upside-Down Map" visually presses us to change our thinking. "Japan Seaology," which was inspired by this map, appeals that it is significant to perform a comprehensive study on the Sea of Japan, from the viewpoint that "understanding the Sea of Japan could lead to understanding all the oceans."