First Lady Kim Hye-kyung visits the National Palace Museum of Gyeongbokgung Palace with the wife of the President of Uzbekistan

On the 14th, President Lee Jae-myung's wife, Kim Hye-kyung, met with Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and his wife, Giroat Mirziyoyeva, who was on a state visit, and had a time of friendship while talking about cultural exchanges between the two countries, Blue House Deputy Spokesperson Ahn Gwi-ryeong said in a written briefing.

Mrs. Kim guided Ms. Mirziyoyeva and her daughter to the National Palace Museum in Gyeongbokgung Palace in Jongno-gu, Seoul, and viewed major relics showing the history and culture of the Joseon Dynasty royal family and the Korean Empire imperial family.

They also viewed artifacts such as royal costumes, royal embroidery, and furniture, had tea, and had various conversations about cultural exchange, cutting-edge technology, and education between the two countries.

During the viewing process, Mrs. Kim informed Ms. Mirziyoyeva, who was impressed by the intact state of preservation of the Annals, of the excellence of traditional Korean paper and explained the meaning contained in the colors and patterns of royal attire.

Ms. Mirziyoyeva said, "I was deeply impressed by Korea's rapid technological development, including artificial intelligence (AI)," and expressed her gratitude, saying, "Cooperation with Korea in the field of education is helping Uzbekistan's development."

In response, Mrs. Kim responded, "I feel rewarded that Korea's experience is helping," and added, "I hope that both countries will share each other's strengths and develop together."

In addition, to Ms. Mirziyoyeva, who explained the popularity of the past drama 'Dae Jang Geum', saying that interest in Korean culture is very high in Uzbekistan, she replied, "Culture has a great power to bring countries closer together. I look forward to deepening exchanges and cooperation not only in culture but also in various fields such as cutting-edge technology and education."

Mrs. Mirziyoyeva's second daughter, who lived in Seoul from 2011 to 2016, said, "I have good memories of the time I spent in Korea," and added, "My third daughter is currently studying Korean and hopes to study in Korea."

Mrs. Kim also expressed her support, saying, “I am glad that the relationship with Korea continues to the next generation,” and added, “I hope it will serve as a bridge between Korea and Uzbekistan in the future.”