Ukraine’s Ambassador to Japan, Serhiy Korsunskyy, who was appointed on 14 April 2020 and dismissed by presidential decree on 21 December 2024 but will remain in office until his successor is appointed, discussed his achievements during an interview with LB.ua.
Recently, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a replacement of several ambassadors, including Korsunskyy.
“When I came here in 2020, Ukraine was practically invisible in Japan. This wasn’t due to a lack of effort — much was being done — but Japan is a country where every nation strives to establish a presence. Against such competition, you must be hyperactive to stand out. The first year was extremely difficult due to COVID-19 restrictions, which slowed project implementation,” Korsunskyy noted.
In 2021, only two high-profile visits to Japan occurred, involving the defence ministers of the United States and Ukraine.
“But today, every Ukrainian in Japan will tell you that saying ‘I am Ukrainian’ is met with pride, support, and sincere admiration. The Japanese have discovered Ukraine,” Korsunskyy said.
He mentioned that over the years, more than 60 books about Ukraine have been published in Japan — compared to just two or three annually before. Now, new publications appear monthly.
Japan has taken extraordinary measures to support Ukraine. For the first time, the Japanese parliament passed a resolution supporting another country — Ukraine. President Zelenskyy became the first foreign leader to address the parliament. Japan also supported Ukraine’s armed forces, although not with weapons.
The level of assistance has been remarkable. Japan accepted 2,718 Ukrainian refugees. While this number might seem small compared to Europe, it is significant for Japan, a country with strict refugee policies.
“All doors were open for Ukraine,” the ambassador emphasised.
Japan has imposed 26 sanctions packages against Russia. All major Japanese automotive companies have exited the Russian market. Additionally, Japan is the second-largest entity, after the EU, in freezing Russian assets.
“They fully support us in international courts and in freezing assets. Their support has been unwavering,” Korsunskyy added.
Regarding his dismissal, Korsunskyy commented: “My four-year term in Japan officially ended on 13 October. This is the standard length of service for an ambassador. From this perspective, there’s no issue. However, I am somewhat disappointed that I don’t know who will replace me or when they will arrive.”
He noted the importance of continuity, especially with Expo 2025 on the horizon and Japan’s budget for it set to be finalised in April. “This is work that cannot be paused, not even for a week. This is how Japan operates,” he said.
Korsunskyy intends to fulfil all necessary protocol steps before leaving his post, including meeting with the emperor, prime minister, and other officials to express gratitude for their support.
“I believe I will remain in this position for another two months or so. During this time, we will ensure that support for Ukraine continues and that the foundation for future cooperation is strengthened. Japan is a unique universe; what has been built here must not be neglected — it must be further developed. I wish my successor great success,” Korsunskyy concluded.