By Yoon Sojung
Photos = Cheong Wa Dae Facebook

First lady Kim Jung-sook, currently on a state visit to China alongside President Moon Jae-in, strengthened her friendship with Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan on Dec. 14.

Upon Chinese first lady Peng’s proposal, first lady Kim visited the National Center for the Performing Arts with her. While there, they enjoyed some music together and appreciated a performance by the center's choir, which sang Chinese songs such as “Miracle” and “Jasmine Flower,” and “Onara,” a song from the well-known Korean TV show “Jewel in the Palace” (대장금).

First lady Kim expressed her appreciation for the deep consideration shown by her Chinese counterpart, who considered her interest in music.




Earlier that day, first lady Kim visited the Han Meilin Art Gallery in Beijing and met with Han Meilin, the artist who was in charge of designing the official mascot for the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

She had previously met with Han during her visit to the special exhibition about artist Qi Baishi (齊白石, 1864-1957) at the Seoul Arts Center this past August in Seoul to mark the 25-year diplomatic relationship between Seoul and Beijing.

After arriving at the gallery, she received a scarf decorated with some of Han’s work.

Kim looked around the gallery and appreciated the works of art with Han and his spouse. She also met with world-renowned pianist Lang Lang, the recipient of the Global Citizen Award from the Atlantic Council this year, and Beijing Opera singer Li Yugang. They all appreciated Han’s works of art and enjoyed a performance by Li, while extending the Korea-China friendship.




arete@korea.kr