Strengthening Friendship Through Filipino Dessert Culture 'Merienda'
Mrs. Marcos: "I Enjoy Japchae and Kimchi"
First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, who is accompanying President Lee Jaemyung on a state visit to the Philippines, held a friendship event with Philippine First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos on March 3 at the Guest House near Malaca?ang Palace, according to Deputy Spokesperson An Gwi-ryeong of the Office of the President.
At the event, Mrs. Marcos said, "It is a pleasure to meet again following last year's ASEAN-related summits and the APEC Summit in Gyeongju," expressing her unwavering friendship and trust. In response, Mrs. Kim said, "It is especially meaningful to visit Manila on March 3, the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries," and added, "I am grateful to experience firsthand the Filipino spirit of hospitality, 'Kapamilya,' which warmly welcomes even strangers like family."
The Guest House, where the friendship event was held, is a building originally constructed in 1929 and renovated in 2024 under the initiative of Mrs. Marcos. Each guest room is themed after former Philippine presidents.
The two first ladies toured the Guest House facilities together, including the 'Quirino' room named after former President Elpidio Quirino, who decided to send Philippine troops during the Korean War, reflecting on the long-standing ties between the two countries. Mrs. Kim carefully examined items such as framed pictures and cushions placed in the rooms, asking about their significance and showing deep interest in the stories embedded throughout the space.
Afterwards, the two first ladies enjoyed a performance by renowned Filipino pianist Raul Sunico. As Mrs. Kim majored in piano and Mrs. Marcos is known for her deep appreciation of classical music, both listened attentively and enjoyed the concert. After the performance, Raul Sunico said, "It was an honor to perform at such a meaningful event." Mrs. Kim responded, "I will remember this for a long time," and added, "Thank you sincerely for the wonderful performance."
Mrs. Marcos introduced the Filipino 'Merienda' culture, where people have snacks and continue conversations twice a day, and prepared traditional desserts. The table featured mango pickles called 'Burong Mangga,' papaya pickles called 'Atchara,' steamed glutinous rice in coconut milk wrapped in banana leaves known as 'Suman,' and 'Halo-halo,' a dessert similar to Korean shaved ice.
After tasting suman with various toppings, Mrs. Kim remarked, "This is similar to Korean glutinous rice cake," expressing her delight. She also commented, "It tastes especially good with banana and mango," and noted, "Many bananas from the Philippines are consumed in Korea."
Mrs. Marcos explained the ingredients used in the traditional desserts and drew attention by introducing the 'Kimchi Crispy' product produced by a Philippine company and exported to Korea. Mrs. Kim said, "There is a saying that to truly understand a country's culture, you should try its food," and shared, "Through Filipino cuisine today, I felt a warmth and familiarity similar to Korean food."
Mrs. Marcos responded, "Food has the power to bring people together," and added, "I enjoy japchae and kimchi, and Korean cuisine is also very popular in the Philippines." Mrs. Kim replied, "I hope to promote Korean cuisine more widely around the world."
The two first ladies also discussed shared interests such as traditional culture and the arts, education, and support for vulnerable groups. Mrs. Kim said, "I understand that you have been actively supporting the operation of mobile clinics for residents in medically underserved areas. Such activities have a profound impact on many people." Mrs. Marcos replied, "Meeting residents in the field often brings tears to my eyes, but I feel rewarded knowing I can offer even a small amount of help."
Deputy Spokesperson An explained, "Through this meeting, the two first ladies deepened their mutual understanding and trust, and expressed hope for continued friendship and cooperation between the two countries, promising to meet again in the future."
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