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Leaders Drum Up Diplomacy with K-Pop Beat
14 Jan
Summary
- Leaders played drum solos to popular K-pop hits.
- The impromptu jam session was a planned surprise.
- Music served as a metaphor for deepening bilateral ties.
In an unprecedented display of cultural diplomacy, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung engaged in an impromptu K-pop jam session. Following official discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, the two leaders donned matching athletic jackets and performed energetic drum solos. Their performance included popular tracks like BTS’s “Dynamite,” captured in a video released by Takaichi’s office.
This unique event was a carefully orchestrated surprise, stemming from a prior conversation between the leaders. Takaichi, a former drummer, fulfilled President Lee’s expressed dream of playing the drums. Both leaders drew parallels between musical harmony and diplomatic collaboration, expressing a desire for deeper understanding and cooperation between their nations.
The viral moment offered a lighthearted yet symbolic representation of the improving ties between Japan and South Korea. It emphasized the power of soft power and cultural exchange in fostering positive diplomatic relations, demonstrating that playful engagement can be a potent tool in international relations.
