Mrs. Kim Visits Korean International School in Beijing, Presents 'Chicken' Gifts

Encouraging Korean Students, Parents, and Faculty Abroad
To Graduating High School Students:
"Your Dreams and Passion Will Shape the Future of Korea and China"

Kim Hye-kyung, who is currently on a state visit to China with President Lee Jae-myung, spent a meaningful morning on January 6 at the Korean International School in Beijing, encouraging Korean students, their parents, and faculty members, according to Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Ahn Gwi-ryeong. Kim congratulated high school students about to graduate, saying, "Your dreams and passion will become a beacon lighting the future of both Korea and China," and presented them with 'graduation celebration chicken.'

Yonhap News Agency

Since its establishment in 1998, the Korean International School in Beijing has worked for over 30 years to foster a sense of identity and pride as Koreans, and to nurture global talent that will lead future cooperation between Korea and China. When Kim arrived at the school, students welcomed her with enthusiastic applause and cheers, saying, "Welcome," "We're graduating tomorrow," and "Please take a photo with us."

After taking photos with the students, Kim held a meeting with parents and faculty members. Koh Hyun-seok, principal of the Korean International School in Beijing, introduced the school's history and current operations, saying, "Since Korea-China relations can affect student enrollment, I hope that the efforts of President Lee and Mrs. Kim to improve bilateral relations will have a positive impact, such as an increase in the number of students."

Choi Seok-jin, president of the school's Parent Association, expressed his gratitude, saying, "Despite your busy schedule, your personal visit alone will give the children great courage and strength."

In response, Kim said, "As a mother of two myself, I understand better than anyone the importance of education for our children's bright future," and thanked the parents and faculty for their dedication to the education of Korean students abroad. She added, "Let us join forces so that our children can grow into talents who, grounded in their Korean identity, can thrive on the world stage."

Afterward, Kim watched a demonstration by the school's Taekwondo demonstration team. She remarked, "It felt like a K-pop group had come," and added, "As global interest in Korean culture continues to rise, I am extremely proud and pleased to see Taekwondo, our national martial art, being promoted here in Beijing," offering her applause in encouragement.

Kim also observed a New Year's card-making class in an elementary classroom, where she wrote "Happy New Year" on a card with the students, commenting, "It seems the children have better handwriting than I do," which brought laughter to the classroom.

Kim concluded her visit by giving high-fives and taking photos with the children, wrapping up her schedule at the Korean International School in Beijing.