First Lady Kim Hyekyung Tours Palace Museum with Uzbek First Lady: "Hope for Deeper Exchange"

Mrs. Kim: "Proud That Korea's Experience Is Helpful"

Uzbek First Lady: "Many Cultural Commonalities Between Our Two Countries"

On September 14, Mrs. Kim Hye-kyung spent time strengthening friendship with Mrs. Ziroat Mirziyoyeva, wife of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, during her visit to the National Palace Museum.

An Gwi-ryeong, Deputy Spokesperson of the Presidential Office, announced in a written briefing that Mrs. Kim and Mrs. Mirziyoyeva visited the National Palace Museum on this day. Mrs. Mirziyoyeva was accompanied by her second daughter, Shahnoza Mirziyoyeva, who also attended the event. Mrs. Shahnoza Mirziyoyeva previously lived in Seoul from 2011 to 2016.

Mrs. Kim Hye-kyung and Mrs. Ziroat Mirziyoyeva, wife of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, are taking a commemorative photo after viewing the exhibition at the National Palace Museum in Jongno-gu, Seoul on September 14, 2026. Photo by Yonhap News

Mrs. Mirziyoyeva said, "The sight of people of all ages dressed in hanbok near Gyeongbokgung Palace was truly beautiful," adding, "When my granddaughter lived in Korea, I saw a photo of her dressed in hanbok." Expressing her delight, Mrs. Kim explained, "Wearing hanbok and touring historical palaces is a popular cultural experience among foreigners as well."

The two ladies then toured key artifacts that showcase the history and culture of the Joseon royal family and the imperial family of the Korean Empire. In particular, Mrs. Mirziyoyeva was amazed by the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty, noting, "They have been remarkably well-preserved despite the passage of so many years." Mrs. Kim introduced, "Our traditional Korean paper, hanji, is renowned for its excellent durability and does not easily deteriorate even after many years."

While viewing court attire, royal embroidery, and furniture, Mrs. Kim personally explained the meanings of the colors and patterns present in the royal garments and even showed the accessories she was wearing. As Mrs. Mirziyoyeva looked at traditional Korean bojagi (wrapping cloth), she commented, "Uzbekistan also has a similar type of fabric," remarking that "there seem to be many cultural points of connection between the two nations."

Mrs. Kim Hye-kyung and Mrs. Ziroat Mirziyoyeva, wife of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, are visiting the National Palace Museum in Jongno-gu, Seoul, and viewing the exhibits on September 14, 2026. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

After touring the museum, the two ladies shared tea and discussed topics including bilateral cultural exchange, advanced technology, and education. Mrs. Mirziyoyeva said, "I am deeply impressed by Korea’s rapid technological advancement, including artificial intelligence (AI). Uzbekistan is very interested in Korea’s experiences." Mrs. Kim responded, "I am glad that Korea’s experiences are proving helpful. I hope both countries will continue to share their respective strengths and develop together."

Additionally, Mrs. Mirziyoyeva highlighted the high interest in Korean culture in Uzbekistan, mentioning K-pop, K-food, and K-beauty. She especially noted, "When the drama Dae Jang Geum aired, the streets felt particularly quiet, perhaps because there are many similarities in the emotional sensibilities of our two nations."

Mrs. Kim remarked, "Sometimes a single drama or movie can have a profound impact on a person’s heart. I hope that exchanges and cooperation between our two countries will deepen even further, not only in culture but also in advanced technology, education, and various other fields."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.