Seoul: First lady Kim Hea Kyung and French first lady Brigitte Macron visited the National Museum of Korea to view key exhibits with cultural ties between the two countries and exchange views on cultural cooperation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the first ladies toured the exhibition hall of the Uigwe, royal protocol manuscripts from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), which have historical ties to France. Brigitte accompanied French President Emmanuel Macron on his state visit to South Korea. The Uigwe were taken by French troops during the 1866 French campaign against Korea and were returned to South Korea in 2011 under a long-term renewable loan arrangement after 145 years.
Kim expressed gratitude that Korea's valuable historical records were well preserved by France and its allowance to display them, according to deputy spokesperson Ahn Gwi-ryeong. Kim was quoted as saying, "We are grateful that they were well preserved in France, which has allowed us to display them."
Brigitte responded that the documents were well preserved and added that they could help children learn important values. The two also toured the museum's "Room of Contemplation," where there are two Pensive Bodhisattva statues, among the museum's most celebrated treasures.
As Kim explained that the Buddhist sculptures capture a moment of deep contemplation and enlightenment, reminiscent of French sculptor Auguste Rodin's "The Thinker," Brigitte expressed agreement, Ahn said.