Lee Jaemyung and Xi Jinping Attend State Dinner: Korean Dakgangjeong and Chinese Mala Abalone Served [Gyeongju APEC]

Korean Dakgangjeong (sweet crispy fried chicken) and Chinese mala abalone were served at the Korea-China state dinner attended by President Lee Jaemyung and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

President Lee Jae-myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands on the 1st at the National Gyeongju Museum in Gyeongbuk before the Korea-China summit. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

The presidential office announced that, following the Korea-China summit held at the National Gyeongju Museum on the 1st, the state dinner would feature Dakgangjeong, described as "the taste of Korea that captivated China," and mala abalone, representing "the taste of China that captivated Korea."

The presidential office stated, "This Korea-China state dinner embodied the significance of the long-standing cultural exchange between Korea and China through cuisine, and expressed the hope that the friendship and harmony between the two countries will continue in the future."

To express a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, nourishing young chicken porridge for health and Mengzhilan, a Chinese liquor favored by President Xi, were also served.

The main course included grilled short rib patties made with minced Korean beef from Gyeongju, lily bulb soup, and three side dishes (seasoned aster, grilled deodeok root, and napa cabbage kimchi). Traditionally, grilled short rib patties have symbolized the utmost hospitality toward guests.

In celebration of the 33rd anniversary of Korea-China diplomatic relations this year, three-colored Maejakgwa (Korean twisted cookies) and a trio of fruits from Korea were prepared. In addition, the Chinese dessert Zhima Gu was served with Boseong green tea, expressing the wish that the memories of the dinner would linger long after the event.

Earlier in the afternoon, President Lee and President Xi held a summit for 97 minutes.