Session I - Asian Culture’s Potential: Tradition, Innovation, and the Creation of Empathy (10:30-11:30, Oct. 17)

The challenges we face today are more complex than ever — and no single technology, not even AI, can solve the emotional and ethical struggles rooted in human desire. What we truly need is to strengthen the force of empathy and look back at the wisdom in our traditions.

Moderator

Sun-Goo Jung | President, A&A, Artistic Director of Samcheong-Gak

Speaker

Seiichi Kondo | President, Kondo Institute for Culture & Diplomacy

Panelist

In Gun Park | C.E.O., National Theater of Korea

Joyce Chiou | General and Artistic Director, National Taichung Theater

This keynote explored how the long arc of human cultural development shapes our present challenges and future possibilities. Humanity has evolved remarkably from the cognitive revolution to the agricultural revolution, achieving systems of governance, social stability, economic growth, and the accumulation of knowledge and technological progress.

Yet, these very successes have introduced new complexities. Modern societies face interconnected challenges that often surpass our capacity to manage them. Technologies, while transformative, can also amplify inequality, competition, and unchecked desires, widening the gap between the ideals of liberal democracy and lived reality. Artificial Intelligence may help us navigate some of these systemic issues, but it cannot resolve the emotional and motivational dimensions at the heart of human behavior.

The Essential Role of Empathy

Empathy, deeply rooted in our evolutionary development, enabled early humans to form stable communities and cooperate toward shared goals. Neurological mechanisms such as mirror neurons illustrate how empathy allows us to feel with others, not just think about them. Strengthening empathy remains essential if we are to prioritize long-term collective well-being over short-term self-interest.

Asian Values for a New Paradigm

Traditional Asian values—harmony, discipline, responsibility, spiritual cultivation, consensus-building, and perseverance—provide cultural foundations for nurturing empathy and cooperative problem-solving. History shows us that laws alone are insufficient for lasting peace; the emotional and moral bonds between people matter just as much.

The Unifying Power of the Arts

Culture and the arts, especially music, can bridge divides where language and politics cannot. Music creates shared emotional experience and social identity. For example, lullabies once played a crucial role in communal childcare and survival. Today, the arts continue to foster connection across borders, backgrounds, and generations.

Towards a Hybrid Civilisation

As we face increasingly complex global challenges, we must strengthen the cultural and emotional capacities that allow societies to work together. While AI may assist us intellectually, empathy must guide the choices we make. Asian traditions offer valuable resources for building this foundation, while innovation and creative experimentation—especially among younger generations—will push our societies forward.

FACP’s ongoing work already demonstrates the power of cultural exchange in cultivating empathy across the region. Expanding this effort globally may be one of the most meaningful contributions Asia can offer to the world today.

During the discussion, the speakers reflected on the ethical dimensions of culture and technological advancement. Mr. Kondo emphasized the need for continual dialogue to ensure that progress does not harm individuals or communities. Mr. Park highlighted the importance of addressing ethical concerns proactively. Ms. Chiou expressed uncertainty about how AI will evolve, but stressed the importance of nurturing empathy in children, reminding us, “When AI is silent, it may simply lack data. Humans are different—our minds are always in motion.”