LONDON - South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee were ceremonially welcomed by King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their state visit to Britain on Tuesday. This visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement, as the leaders celebrate 140 years of diplomatic relations between South Korea and the United Kingdom.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the day's events commenced with Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, escorting President Yoon and First Lady Kim from their hotel to the Horse Guards Parade. This prestigious location served as the backdrop for the official welcome, highlighted by a 41-gun salute and an inspection of the Guard of Honor.
At the Royal Pavilion on Horse Guards Parade, King Charles III and Queen Camilla personally greeted the South Korean dignitaries. In a display of formal diplomacy, King Charles introduced President Yoon to various palace and government officials. The ceremony also featured President Yoon engaging in a handshake and exchange of pleasantries with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
The ceremonial events continued with a grand carriage procession to Buckingham Palace. President Yoon and King Charles led the procession in a golden carriage, flanked by interpreters. They were followed by First Lady Kim and Queen Camilla in a subsequent carriage. Prince William and Kate Middleton joined the procession, along with President Yoon's entourage, in additional carriages.
Signifying the importance of the visit, the route to Buckingham Palace was adorned with both South Korean and British national flags. Crowds gathered along the route, witnessing the rare spectacle of the royal event.
Upon arriving at Buckingham Palace, King Charles was scheduled to host a private lunch for the South Korean guests. The visit also included an exchange of gifts and a special viewing of an exhibition showcasing items related to South Korea from the Royal Collection. Notably, this state visit by President Yoon and First Lady Kim is the first since King Charles III's coronation in May 2023, underlining the visit's historical significance in British-South Korean relations.