First Lady Engages with UAE Hallyu Club Members

A Cultural Exchange in Abu Dhabi

First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, who accompanied President Lee Jae-myung on his Middle East and Africa tour, held a luncheon meeting with members of the ‘Hallyu (Korean Wave) Club’ at a Korean restaurant in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on the 18th, local time. Mrs. Kim has consistently promoted Korean culture, including K-Food, during the president’s overseas visits.

The meeting was attended by over 10 members, including participants from active Hallyu (Korean Wave) clubs at three UAE universities—UAE University, Zayed University, and Khalifa University—as well as winners of Korean speech competitions.

Promoting Korean Culture Through Youth Engagement

The Arirang Club at UAE University, the first Hallyu (Korean Wave) club established in the UAE in 2008, gifted Mrs. Kim a book containing direct Arabic translations of poet Yun Dong-ju’s poetry collection. Members of the Arirang Club, Zayed University’s Korean Club, and Khalifa University’s Jjang Club introduced their annual activities, including organizing Korean song competitions, cultural festivals, and experiential booths based on Korean variety shows.

Mrs. Kim stated, “If there is any support you need during the exchange between the UAE and Korea, please feel free to ask. I hope more Korean representative festivals and events will be held, and opportunities for youth exchanges between the two countries will increase.”

Wearing Hanbok at the Presidential Palace

Mrs. Kim attended a cultural exchange event at the Presidential Palace ‘Qasr Al Watan’ in Abu Dhabi on the afternoon of the 18th wearing a hanbok. She has worn the traditional Korean attire at major international events to highlight its beauty. During the event, when soprano Jo Su-mi performed “Longing for Mount Kumgang,” Mrs. Kim was seen tearing up, captured by broadcast cameras. Jo, an alumnus of Sunhwa Arts High School, and Mrs. Kim embraced after the performance to express their joy.

When President Lee arrived in Abu Dhabi on the 17th and visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the resting place of the UAE’s first president, Mrs. Kim accompanied him. She wore a hijab in accordance with local cultural norms.

The Role of First Lady in International Relations

Kim Hye-kyung's presence at various cultural events highlights the importance of soft diplomacy in strengthening international relations. By engaging directly with young people and cultural organizations, she helps bridge gaps between nations through shared interests and mutual respect.

Her interactions with the Hallyu Club members not only promote Korean culture but also encourage deeper cultural understanding between the UAE and South Korea. These efforts contribute to building long-term relationships that go beyond political or economic ties.

Events and Traditions

The visit included several significant cultural events that showcased the depth of Korean heritage. The use of traditional attire, such as the hanbok, serves as a powerful symbol of national identity and pride. It also demonstrates respect for the host country's customs, as seen when Mrs. Kim wore a hijab during her visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The cultural exchange event at Qasr Al Watan further emphasized the value of artistic expression in fostering cross-cultural connections. The emotional response of Mrs. Kim to the performance of "Longing for Mount Kumgang" highlighted the universal appeal of music and its ability to transcend language and borders.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the continued collaboration between Korean and UAE cultural groups can lead to more joint initiatives and events. These could include art exhibitions, music festivals, and academic exchanges that benefit both communities. The enthusiasm and dedication of the Hallyu Club members indicate a strong foundation for future cooperation.

By supporting these grassroots efforts, leaders like Mrs. Kim play a crucial role in shaping the narrative of international relations. Their actions help create a more interconnected world where cultural diversity is celebrated and valued.