South Korea and Brazil Hold State Luncheon and Reception... Featuring 'Evergreen Tree' Performance

President Lee Jae-myung, who is on a state visit to Brazil, attended a state luncheon hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on the afternoon of the 27th (local time).

The luncheon was prepared by prominent Brazilian chef Mara Salles, and the cover of the menu placed on the tables featured a "Hanbok Media Facade of Christ the Redeemer" artwork utilizing the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, created by designer Lee Jin-hee, a public relations ambassador for Jinju silk.

Senior Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung noted that the Brazilian side showed exceptional hospitality to the South Korean delegation, such as preparing an "Okusa silk bojagi" artwork utilizing traditional Korean wrapping cloth techniques.

During the luncheon, President Lula expressed his intention to strengthen cooperation in the education sector between the two countries, stating, "Education is the most important investment for the future, and South Korea's development and growth are based on nurturing talent through education."

President Lula and the First Lady also hosted a cultural performance and reception for President Lee and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung at the Itamaraty Palace, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

Korean business figures active in Brazil were also invited to the event, facilitating exchanges between the leaders and business representatives of both countries.

Thirteen figures from South Korea were present, including Ryu Jin, Chairman of the Federation of Korean Industries; Chang In-hwa, Chairman of POSCO; Cho Won-tae, Chairman of Korean Air; and Park Seung-hee, President of Samsung Electronics.

Senior Spokesperson Kang stated that President Lee conveyed his commitment that the government will actively support through "economic diplomacy" to ensure this state visit serves as an opportunity to broaden the economic cooperation foundation for Korean companies and create new market entry and investment opportunities.

During the cultural performance, Paula Lima, a singer and songwriter from São Paulo, and Daniel Lee, a soloist with the São Paulo Municipal Theatre Choir, performed famous Brazilian bossa nova songs such as "The Girl from Ipanema" and "Waters of March," one of the most beloved songs by the Brazilian people.

Notably, in the middle of the performance, Daniel Lee drew attention by soloing the Korean song "Evergreen Tree."

Senior Spokesperson Kang explained, "It was a meaningful stage wishing for friendship and solidarity between the two countries."

President Lula and the First Lady repeatedly expressed their desire to reciprocate the warm hospitality they received when they visited South Korea last February, and once again conveyed their welcome and gratitude to President Lee, his wife, and the Korean delegation for making the long journey, according to Senior Spokesperson Kang.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.