China-Japan-South Korea children's painting exhibition opens in Shanghai

The 13th China-Japan-South Korea Children's Friendship Painting Exhibition opened at the China Welfare Institute Children's Palace in Shanghai on Aug 2, bringing together young artists from the three countries in a vibrant celebration of friendship and creativity.

Jointly organized by the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Japan's NGO Social Education Association Bellpo, and South Korea's Busan Global City Foundation, the exhibition is supported by several local partners, including the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, the Shanghai Magnolia Foundation for International Exchange, the Changning District People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and Takashimaya Shanghai.

In their opening remarks, Su Lin, vice-president of the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Yukari Tsuru, chairwoman of NGO Social Education Association Bellpo, and Jun Yongwoo, CEO of the Busan Global City Foundation (via video), highlighted the exhibition's growing influence. As more organizations join, the event has evolved into a key platform for cultural exchange and youth dialogue. With 2025–26 designated as the China-Japan-South Korea Cultural Exchange Year, the children's artworks serve as heartfelt and imaginative expressions of shared values and connections.

Young artists took to the stage to share their stories and inspirations. Representing the three countries were Yu Zimeng from China, siblings Shiori and Eisuke Otsubo from Japan, and Ko Seong hyun from South Korea (via video), who spoke about their love of art, their excitement at receiving awards, and their aspirations for international friendship.

Awards were presented to outstanding young artists and organizing institutions. The opening also featured captivating performances, including a traditional Chinese dance and a cultural showcase of Chinese calligraphy, papercutting, painting, and traditional music. Handcrafted artworks created on-site were gifted to the Japanese and South Korean guests.

Since its launch in 2013, the exhibition has blossomed into a cherished tradition, drawing tens of thousands of young participants and building lasting bonds through the universal language of art. It continues to cultivate empathy, creativity, and cross-cultural friendship among the youth of China, Japan, and South Korea.

This year's exhibition will be on display from Aug 6 to 31 at the Takashimaya Department Store in Shanghai, and from Sept 1 to 30 at the China Welfare Institute Children's Palace. It will then travel to Fukuoka and Tokyo in Japan starting in September, followed by a showing in Busan, South Korea, in November.