First Ladies Exchange Gifts and Cultural Insights During Brazil’s State Visit to South Korea

Seoul, South Korea – A customized traditional hanbok was presented to Hozanzela Dasiouba, wife of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, by First Lady Kim Hye-kyung during the Brazilian President’s state visit to South Korea on February 23, 2026. The exchange underscored the growing cultural ties between the two nations and a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Hanbok Presentation and Cultural Exchange

The presentation took place at the Blue House, where the two First Ladies convened in a separate exhibition space. A light purple jeogori (jacket) and light pink chima (skirt) hanbok, specifically chosen for Ms. Dasiouba, was displayed alongside accessories including a hairpin, back holder, norigae (ornamental tassel) and traditional flower shoes. Pottery adorned with yellow and orange cattleya flowers – Brazil’s national flower – added a personal touch to the presentation.

Upon viewing the completed hanbok, Ms. Dasiouba expressed her delight, stating, “Wow, it’s already out. It’s more beautiful than I thought.” She then received the garment with gratitude, responding “Thank you” in Korean, as relayed by Blue House Deputy Spokesperson Jeon Eun-soo.

Discussions on Social Issues and Cultural Appreciation

The two First Ladies engaged in extensive conversations covering a range of social issues and shared perspectives. Ms. Kim commended Ms. Dasiouba’s continued dedication to social activism and her commitment to fostering a world free from discrimination. Ms. Dasiouba, in turn, expressed her appreciation for Ms. Kim’s efforts to promote Korean culture, including the hanbok and K-pop, on the global stage.

Shared Histories and Future Partnerships

Ms. Kim highlighted the parallel paths taken by both presidents, suggesting a natural rapport between the two leaders. She expressed hope for a future of co-existence and partnership between Korea and Brazil. The two First Ladies later continued their cultural exchange with a visit to the Seoul Craft Museum, where Ms. Kim explained that her dangui (a type of formal hanbok) was inspired by the colors of the Brazilian flag – blue, green, and yellow.

According to Deputy Spokesperson Jeon, the meetings reaffirmed the importance of people-to-people and cultural exchanges in bridging geographical distances and fostering enduring friendship between the two countries.