On February 21, 2026, Kim Hye-kyung, First Lady of Korea, and Janja Lula da Silva, First Lady of Brazil, visited the National Folk Museum in Paju. The visit was organized to introduce and share the traditional cultures of both countries. The event included viewing the exhibition ‘Brazil Rio Carnival: The Soul of Africa, the Rhythm of Samba’ and Korean traditional folk crafts. This initiative aimed to deepen friendship and cultural understanding between Korea and Brazil.
The visit impacted cultural leaders, museum professionals, and the general public interested in international relations. Both First Ladies engaged in discussions about the origins and significance of their respective traditional festivals and foods. Janja Lula da Silva explained the history and diversity of Brazil’s samba festival, while Kim Hye-kyung introduced Korean traditional foods and crafts. The event also showcased interactive exhibits, such as the ‘Mangueira Samba School’ and a digital kiosk for exploring over 180,000 museum artifacts.
The program included a tour of the museum’s main exhibitions, a demonstration of samba rhythms, and a discussion on the influence of Korean dramas and K-pop. Over 25,000 visitors had attended the ‘Brazil Rio Carnival’ exhibition, reflecting strong public interest. The First Ladies concluded their visit with a commemorative photo and agreed to meet again the following week. The event was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cultural ties.
Frequently asked questions include: What was the purpose of the First Ladies’ visit? The visit aimed to promote mutual understanding and cultural exchange between Korea and Brazil. How was the event structured? The program included guided tours, interactive exhibits, and discussions on traditional culture and popular media. The First Ladies also discussed the role of K-pop and Korean dramas in global cultural connections.
This event highlights the effective use of cultural diplomacy to strengthen Korea-Brazil relations. The First Ladies’ engagement with traditional arts, interactive exhibits, and discussions about popular culture demonstrates a comprehensive approach to fostering mutual understanding. The significant public interest in the exhibition indicates that such initiatives resonate with broader audiences. Continued efforts in this direction are likely to yield positive outcomes for bilateral cooperation.