Meeting at Non-Profit Arts Charity 'Temenggong Artists-in-Residence'
Mrs. Kim: "Art Is a Channel for Healing and Recovery"... Supports Singapore's 'Yellow Ribbon' Initiative
On February 26, First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, who is on a state visit to Singapore together with President Lee Jaemyung, held a tea meeting with Mrs. Jane Yumiko Ittogi, the spouse of the President of Singapore.
The tea meeting took place at the 'Temenggong Artists-in-Residence,' a non-profit arts charity and artist residency in Singapore. This venue, where a variety of artworks are created and exhibited, hosted exhibitions and lectures featuring artists from both countries last year to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Singapore.
Mrs. Ittogi expressed a warm welcome, saying, "It is especially meaningful that Mrs. Kim personally visited this venue, which hosted the 50th anniversary celebration of Korea-Singapore diplomatic ties." Mrs. Kim responded, "I am deeply grateful for your kind invitation and warm hospitality in such a special place."
Mrs. Ittogi went on to say, "Are you aware that the people of Singapore truly love Korea?" She noted the deep affection and interest in Korea across various fields, including food, cosmetics, and dramas. In response, Mrs. Kim recalled, "I remember enjoying chili crab when I visited Singapore," and mentioned that Singapore is a familiar and beloved travel destination for Korean people.
The two first ladies engaged in a candid and close conversation on shared interests such as the promotion and support of culture and the arts. Mrs. Kim remarked, "I understand that you have made significant contributions to the development of Singapore's arts and culture, including serving on the board of the National Gallery Singapore." She then asked, "Since you studied law, I am curious about how you became interested in the arts and what motivated you to consistently support artists."
To this, Mrs. Ittogi replied, "Perhaps I always liked the arts more than law," and added, "If I had talent, I might have become an artist myself," which elicited laughter and created a warm atmosphere. She also referenced Mrs. Kim's background as a piano major, saying, "Given your deep understanding and affection for the arts, I believe we have much in common."
In particular, Mrs. Kim highly praised Mrs. Ittogi's support for the "Yellow Ribbon" project, an art exhibition initiative aimed at helping inmates reintegrate into society. Mrs. Kim stated, "I was deeply moved by your efforts to make art a channel for healing, recovery, and social solidarity," and added, "Your activities serve as an inspiration to many." Mrs. Ittogi explained that her interest in supporting inmates' artistic endeavors began after she served as a judge for a writing contest at Changi Prison. She further expressed, "I hope to continue working with you, Mrs. Kim, to promote social inclusion and solidarity through the arts."
After the tea meeting, the two first ladies toured the artworks that were displayed at this venue last year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Korea-Singapore diplomatic relations. They discussed the creativity and dynamism of Korean art, mentioning globally recognized Korean artists and figures such as Nam June Paik, Cho Seongjin, and BTS.
Mrs. Kim remarked, "Koreans seem to have a cultural DNA that enjoys art and leisure," adding, "I believe that today's achievements have been made possible by a combination of passionate dedication to one's pursuits and the perseverance to endure countless hours of practice."
An Gwiryeong, Deputy Spokesperson for the Office of the President, stated, "The two first ladies expressed hope that cultural and artistic cooperation between the two countries will continue to expand through ongoing exchanges, and they looked forward to meeting again in the future."
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