South Korea’s new president, Lee Jae Myung, presented Chinese leader Xi Jinping with a finely crafted wooden Go board during a state visit. This meeting took place after Lee had earlier given U. S. President Donald Trump a gold crown at a summit. Gifts to leaders are important in diplomacy but can be tricky, especially when comparing offerings to these two rival nations.
The summit occurred in the historic city of Gyeongju, marking Lee’s first meeting with Xi since taking office. Lee aims to strengthen ties with China, South Korea’s largest trading partner, following a period of tense relations. The Go board, made from Torreya nucifera wood from Jeju Island, was chosen because both leaders enjoy the game; Xi was given Go stones during his last visit to South Korea. In addition to the Go board, Lee gifted Xi a traditional Korean tray with mother-of-pearl inlay to symbolize good relations.
The state dinner featured dumplings popular in both countries, South Korean fried chicken, and a dish with Sichuan sauce. Xi’s favorite liquor, Mengzhilan baijiu, was also served. Lee recently awarded Trump the highest South Korean decoration, the “Grand Order of Mugunghwa,” along with a replica crown from a historic tomb.
With information from Reuters