First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, who is visiting Japan with President Lee Jae-myung, met with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's wife, Yoshiko Ishiba, on the afternoon of the 23rd for a time of camaraderie.
According to Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gyu-ryeong from the Presidential office, Kim thanked, "Thanks to the considerate arrangements of the prime minister and his wife, I was able to arrive comfortably from the airport to the city center." In response, Mrs. Ishiba noted, "It is meaningful to spend time with Kim."
The two ladies later engaged in an experience of making traditional Korean and Japanese knots. When Mrs. Ishiba introduced, "The Japanese traditional knot signifies a strong bond between people," Kim replied, "The Korean traditional knot brings in good energy and wishes for success and well-being."
Kim also said, "Even though they have different shapes, knots require perseverance, restraint, and sincerity," adding, "There are many similarities between Korean and Japanese traditional knots." She then highlighted the character in the Netflix animated series 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' wearing a Korean ornament called norigae, stating, "The potential for cultural cooperation is limitless."
After the experience, Kim and Mrs. Ishiba exchanged the norigae they made themselves. Kim remarked, "The chrysanthemum knot of the norigae represents health, longevity, integrity, and the continuation of relationships," expressing, "I hope the friendship between Korea and Japan lasts as long as the chrysanthemum knot." Mrs. Ishiba responded, "I feel like we have formed a bond today that will not unravel," promising to cherish it.
The conversation and experience lasted 70 minutes, exceeding the scheduled time. The two ladies promised to meet again in Korea.