First Lady Kim Hye-kyung Visits National Museum of Korea with Vietnamese First Lady
During 45-Minute Conversation, Kim Emphasizes "Continued Support for Vietnamese Women and Multicultural Children"
Touring the National Museum: Pensive Bodhisattva, Uigwe from Oegyujanggak, White Porcelain Moon Jar, and More
Ngo Phuong Ly: "K-culture Has Become Part of Everyday Life in Vietnam"
Meanwhile, as Vietnamese Party Secretary-General To Lam is on a state visit to Korea, First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, wife of President Lee Jae-myung, met with Ngo Phuong Ly, wife of the Vietnamese Party Secretary-General, for a friendly conversation on the morning of August 11, according to the Presidential Office.
First Lady Kim Hye-kyung mentioned that Ngo Phuong Ly majored in fine arts and previously served as Director of the Culture and Arts Department at the state broadcaster. She said, "As a piano major, I have a deep interest in culture and the arts, so I especially wanted to meet Mrs. Ngo Phuong Ly." In response, Ngo Phuong Ly expressed her gratitude, saying, "I am happy and grateful for the warm welcome," and added that she believes cooperation between Korea and Vietnam, especially in culture and the arts, will continue to flourish.
Kim Hye-kyung and Ngo Phuong Ly also discussed people-to-people exchanges. When Ngo Phuong Ly mentioned that she had met with Vietnamese women living in Korea to start families the previous day (August 10), Kim Hye-kyung responded that she would continue to pay attention to ensure that Vietnamese women and children from multicultural families can settle stably as members of Korean society.
After their 45-minute conversation, Kim Hye-kyung and Ngo Phuong Ly visited the National Museum of Korea together. Guided by Yu Hong-jun, Director of the National Museum of Korea, they toured the permanent exhibitions, including the Pensive Bodhisattva, the Uigwe from the Oegyujanggak, the White Porcelain Moon Jar, the Gamsansa Buddha Statue, and the Ten-story Stone Pagoda from Gyeongcheonsa Temple Site.
Ngo Phuong Ly remarked that the Pensive Bodhisattva, with its subtle smile rather than a troubled expression, was particularly impressive. Kim Hye-kyung introduced the miniature Pensive Bodhisattva as one of the most popular MUSE (museum merchandise) items. Kim Hye-kyung explained that while Vietnam also has a well-developed ceramic culture, Korea's ceramic techniques are highly advanced, as seen in the Moon Jar. Ngo Phuong Ly responded that although the Moon Jar appears simple, it is very charming.
Kim Hye-kyung also mentioned to Director Yu Hong-jun that she had heard the National Museum of Korea has gained significant popularity recently due to the Netflix animated film "K-Pop Demon Hunters," and asked if visitor numbers had increased. Director Yu replied that on weekends, people line up an hour before opening, and that visitor numbers have increased by about 92% compared to the same period last year.
Ngo Phuong Ly stated that K-culture, including film, music, and food, has become a part of daily life in Vietnam, surpassing mere trends. She added, "Touring the National Museum of Korea, I was able to personally experience the identity and value of K-culture." She also expressed regret that time was short and said, "I will make an effort to visit again." Kim Hye-kyung replied, "Your visit has become a wonderful memory, and I hope to see you again."
Meanwhile, Kim Hye-kyung and Ngo Phuong Ly also visited the official museum goods store, 'MUSE Shop,' to browse the merchandise, and warmly greeted many citizens visiting the museum.
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