On April 23, one of the most vibrant spring celebrations took place in the “Friends’ Garden” at Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) — the Cherry Blossom Festival, which brought together the university community and distinguished guests from the Republic of Korea and Japan, inviting everyone to welcome the long-awaited spring together.
The celebration began with a meeting between the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Lithuania, H.E. Joyoung Jeon, and MRU Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė. During the meeting, they discussed opportunities for bilateral cooperation and future directions of partnership. The ambassador emphasized that cooperation between the countries should primarily be developed in the fields of science and culture, with particular attention to joint projects. Following the meeting, the ambassador delivered a lecture titled “Strengthening Cooperation Relations between Korea and Lithuania,” which explored the prospects for developing ties between the two countries.
During his visit, H.E. Joyoung Jeon also participated in the MRU Cherry Blossom Festival, where he greeted attendees on the occasion of the spring celebration. Participants gathered in the special space of the “Friends’ Garden,” where they were offered tea and Japanese delicacies provided by “Nanto Food Studio” and “Japan Cafe,” as well as a performance by the Vilnius aikido club “Sūkurys,” an origami workshop, and welcoming speeches.
During the event, MRU Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė highlighted the importance of unity, openness, and cultural dialogue, expressing her joy in welcoming guests, ambassadors, and members of the university community. She noted that such moments allow people to pause and strengthen mutual connections, while the symbolism of cherry blossoms reminds us that under blooming trees there are no strangers — we all become part of one community. According to the rector, this delicate yet remarkable natural phenomenon encourages people to appreciate the moment and share it with others.
The Ambassador of Japan to Lithuania, Shimizu Shinsuke, who also attended the celebration, emphasized that the tradition of cherry blossom viewing, which originated in Japan as early as the 8th century, symbolizes not only the beauty of nature but also the cyclical nature of life and the connection with the community. According to him, today the sakura has become a universal symbol that brings people together around the world and reminds us of the values of peace, freedom, and friendship.
The Cherry Blossom Festival became a warm and meaningful gathering where history, traditions, and modern community spirit came together. It once again demonstrated how culture can bring different countries, cultures, and people closer, creating space for dialogue, understanding, and future joint initiatives.
