On February 23, 2026, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and First Lady hosted a state banquet for Brazilian President Lula da Silva and his delegation at the Cheong Wa Dae Guest House. The event aimed to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote cooperation between South Korea and Brazil. Attendees included key government officials, business leaders from Samsung, SK, LG, Hyundai, and CJ, as well as cultural and academic figures. The banquet underscored the importance of shared values and mutual aspirations for a better future.
Over 120 participants attended, including senior government officials such as Kang Hoon-sik, Wi Sung-rak, Kim Yong-bum, and Vice Prime Ministers Koo Yoon-chul and Bae Kyung-hoon. Parliamentary and business leaders, including Park Jung, Lee Jae-yong, Choi Tae-won, Koo Kwang-mo, Chung Eui-sun, and Son Kyung-sik, were present. Cultural figures like footballer Cesinha and artist Lee Seung-yeon also joined, reflecting the broad impact of the event across sectors. The menu featured dishes blending Korean and Brazilian culinary traditions, symbolizing cultural harmony.
The banquet included performances by jazz vocalist Woongsan and traditional musician Yoo Tae-pyung-yang, who reinterpreted Korean pansori in jazz style, and the Brillante Children’s Choir performed a song representing laborers. After the banquet, both presidential couples continued their friendship at Sangchunjae with a ‘chimaek’ (chicken and beer) gathering, featuring Brazilian and Korean chicken dishes. Gifts exchanged included Korean cosmetics, national football team uniforms, Samsung phones, beauty devices, pet supplies, and a cookbook written by First Lady Kim Hye-kyung. President Lula reiterated his invitation for President Lee to visit Brazil soon.
Frequently asked questions include: What was the purpose of the state banquet? The banquet aimed to deepen diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between South Korea and Brazil. Who attended the event? The gathering included government officials, business leaders, cultural figures, and parliamentary representatives from both countries. What were the highlights of the event? The banquet featured fusion cuisine, musical performances, gift exchanges, and a follow-up ‘chimaek’ meeting, all fostering mutual understanding and friendship.
The state banquet hosted by South Korea for Brazil’s President Lula marks a significant step in deepening bilateral relations. The event’s broad participation from government, business, and cultural sectors highlights a comprehensive approach to partnership. The fusion of Korean and Brazilian cuisine and the exchange of gifts reflect mutual respect and cultural appreciation. President Lula’s invitation for a reciprocal visit underscores the ongoing commitment to collaboration. This initiative is poised to foster greater cooperation and understanding between the two nations.