Cultural ties highlighted at Korea-Poland summit

Apr 14, 2026, 09:13 am

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President Lee Jae-myung and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk raise a toast during an official luncheon at the presidential office on April 13. / Yonhap News

President Lee Jae-myung emphasized cultural connection through literature and music during an official luncheon with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on April 13, underscoring what analysts describe as “emotional diplomacy” between the two nations.

At the event held at the presidential office, Lee quoted lines from “Autumn Day Lyric” by Korean poet Kim Gwang-gyun, saying that “beyond physical distance and time, the two nations have understood and comforted each other.” The poem, which references Poland’s government-in-exile, reflects the shared historical experiences of Korea and Poland in overcoming foreign invasions and national crises.

Lee also highlighted cultural resonance through music, mentioning Polish composer Frédéric Chopin. “The melodies Chopin left behind while longing for his homeland still move the hearts of the Korean people today,” he said, noting that pianist Cho Seong-jin, winner of the Chopin Competition, has grown into a globally renowned musician.

He further referenced pianist Lim Dong-hyek, who performed a Chopin piece at the 2018 Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) gala dinner hosted by Tusk in his capacity as President of the European Council, highlighting past cultural exchanges between the two countries.

In literature, Lee mentioned Polish authors such as Henryk Sienkiewicz and Nobel laureate Wisława Szymborska, noting that their works resonate deeply with Korean readers. He also quoted Polish poet Adam Mickiewicz, expressing hope that cultural and artistic exchanges would further enrich the lives of both peoples.

Lee added that such emotional ties are supporting broader cooperation in strategic sectors. “Amid global uncertainty, cooperation in areas such as defense and infrastructure is advancing,” he said, expressing hope that Korean companies would contribute to Poland’s military strength and economic development.

Concluding his remarks, Lee highlighted the shared democratic values of the two nations and raised a toast in Polish, saying “Na zdrowie,” drawing smiles from attendees.

#Lee Jae-myung #Donald Tusk #Korea Poland #cultural diplomacy #Chopin