Sanae Takaichi Visits South Korea; Korean Side Prepares Traditional Gifts Symbolizing Friendly Relations

(CNA Reporter Yang Chi-fang, Seoul, 19th) Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi arrived at Daegu Airport by special plane at noon today, heading to Andong in Gyeongsangbuk-do, the hometown of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. After their talks, the two sides will hold a dinner, enjoy traditional performances, and other activities. The Korean side has also prepared several traditional gifts with Andong's characteristics, imbued with meaning for the Korea-Japan relationship. Sanae Takaichi begins her two-day, one-night visit to South Korea today, making a special return visit to Lee Jae-myung's hometown of Andong. According to Yonhap News Agency, Takaichi's special plane arrived at Daegu Airport at 11:53 AM (Korea time). About 10 minutes later, she appeared from the cabin door, first bowing her head in greeting, then waving with a bright smile. Takaichi then took a waiting ceremonial vehicle to a hotel in Andong city where the summit will be held. The Daegu Metropolitan Police Agency deployed about 170 police officers, more than 20 patrol cars, and over 20 police motorcycles inside and outside the airport to handle any potential incidents. After their talks today, the two sides will head to Hahoe Village, which preserves traditional Korean charm and cuisine, for a dinner event. The dinner will be held at the traditional Korean house hotel 'Rakkojae' in Hahoe Village, featuring 'Jeonga,' the original dish of Andong Jjimdak, grilled Andong Korean beef ribs, and traditional Andong liquors 'Taesaju' and Andong Soju. After dinner, Lee Jae-myung and Sanae Takaichi will go to the Hahoe Village ferry to watch the traditional Korean fireworks show 'Seonyu Julbul Nori.' Takaichi will stay overnight at a hotel in Andong city and is expected to depart via Daegu Airport tomorrow morning. The Blue House briefed today that Lee Jae-myung has prepared gifts for Takaichi that feature Andong's characteristics and are imbued with meaning for the Korea-Japan relationship, including a wooden carved frame of Andong Hahoe masks, a Joseon Tongsinsa (Korean missions to Japan) gift box, and a white porcelain frame. The 'Andong Hahoe Mask Wood Carving,' composed of nine types of Hahoe masks, symbolizes harmony and also implies the development of friendly relations between Korea and Japan. (Editor: Chen Yen-chun) 1150519