President Yoon Gifts Traditional Korean Artifacts to Japanese Prime Minister

On May 19, President Yoon Suk Yeol prepared a selection of gifts reflecting the local culture for Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who is visiting his hometown of Andong, North Gyeongsang Province.

President Yoon is scheduled to hold a summit with Prime Minister Takaichi in Andong later in the afternoon.

According to the presidential office, the gifts include a wooden frame featuring nine types of Hahoe masks, which symbolize harmony and express hopes for the development of friendly relations between Korea and Japan.

Also included in the gift list are a leather bag made from hanji (traditional Korean paper) and red ginseng, inspired by items that were significant during the Joseon Tongsinsa (Korean envoys to Japan).

Additionally, a moon jar frame, representing a symbol of hope in both countries, conveys wishes for friendship and cooperation between Korea and Japan.

For the Prime Minister's spouse, a set of traditional Joseon Tongsinsa items will be presented along with a 'snowflake pottery' set. The snowflake pottery features patterns created using zinc glaze and silver, capturing the winter scenery of Fukui Prefecture, the hometown of the Prime Minister's spouse.

Furthermore, the Andong Poji Village Preservation Association prepared a single blanket made from Andong po, historically presented to the royal family, wishing for the health and peace of Prime Minister Takaichi.

The Andong Hahoe Village clan association also prepared a mini guardian totem set, symbolizing protection from evil spirits and disease, reflecting the roles of the leaders of both countries.