President Lee Jae Myung on June 23 gives a welcoming speech to diplomats and representatives from international organizations at a banquet he hosted at the garden Nokjiwon of Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul. (Cheong Wa Dae)

By Lee Jihae

President Lee Jae Myung on June 23 shared his administration's foreign policy achievements at a banquet for foreign diplomats and delegates from international organizations at the garden Nokjiwon of Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul.

"The Republic of Korea has attended the G7 summit for two consecutive years and is establishing itself as a responsible partner of the international community," he said in a welcoming speech. "We will maintain close cooperation with the international community based on humanity's shared values of freedom, peace and prosperity."

About 160 people attended the function including envoys from 112 countries like Moroccan Ambassador Chafik Rachadi, who also heads the diplomatic corps in Korea, representatives from 18 global organizations, leaders of relevant ministries and chiefs of honorary consulates in the country.

The main guest section had reserved seats for the ambassadors of Morocco, the U.S., Japan, Philippines, New Zealand, Mongolia, China, European Union, Vatican City and Chile. Cheong Wa Dae said the seating arrangement considered the representation of the countries and region in major visits for diplomatic summits and receptions this year.

The ambassadors said they were deeply impressed by Korea's culture of jeong (consideration for others), noting the strong influence of the country's economic growth and development of democracy on the world.

After making a toast in Korean, President Lee asked the attendees to toast back in their respective languages.

The dinner featured Korean-style charcoal-grilled barbecue, samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly), fried chicken and beer, fresh kimchi and ssambap (rice wrapped in lettuce). Except the samgyeopsal, all ingredients were halal certified and food for vegans and vegetarians was also provided.

jihlee08@korea.kr