First lady Kim Hea-kyung, wife of President Lee Jae-myung, met with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's wife, Loo Tze Lui, on the 2nd and shared friendly conversation, deputy presidential spokesperson Ahn Gwi-ryeong said in a written briefing.
Kim and Loo discussed women's social activities, the two countries' zeal for education, and cultural cooperation. They found common ground on work-life balance and efforts to overcome low birthrates in both countries, and on the need to cultivate outstanding talent through education in an environment with few natural resources and high external dependence.
When Loo noted that Korean foods such as japchae, Kimchi-jjigae (Kimchi stew), soft tofu stew, and bulgogi are popular in Singapore and mentioned Kim's cookbook "Let's Cook Rice," Kim presented her with the book.
Reflecting Singapore's culture of enjoying reading and tea, a magnolia-patterned tea set was also delivered to Loo.
Loo said, "My experience in Gyeongju during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit was impressive," and added, "In particular, there is no one in Singapore who does not know the singer G-Dragon. I drew envy from those around me by watching the performance at the welcome banquet."
Kim responded, "I hope that by visiting both Gyeongju and Seoul this time, you were able to experience Korea's diverse charms."
Prime Minister Wong and Loo made an official visit to Korea on the occasion of the APEC summit. They held a summit with Lee the same day. Reflecting Prime Minister Wong's taste—he is known to have skilled guitar-playing ability—Lee presented an electric guitar decorated with mother-of-pearl lacquer. Wong is said to have performed on the street with a roommate during his U.S. study years.