Lee to Present 'Hahoetal Mask Frame' to Takaichi in Andong... Citizens Also Prepare 'Jangseung Set' as Gifts

On May 19, President Lee Jaemyung will present Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who is visiting Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, with gifts such as a wooden Hahoetal mask frame. Citizens of Andong also plan to present gifts, including blankets and a set of Jangseung (traditional Korean totem poles).

Kang Yujeong, Chief Spokesperson of the Presidential Office, stated in a written briefing on this day that President Lee's gifts to Prime Minister Takaichi are intended to highlight the unique characteristics of Andong and the significance of Korea-Japan relations.

The wooden Hahoetal mask frame consists of nine types of Hahoetal masks. Chief Spokesperson Kang explained that the gifts symbolize harmony and contain wishes for the continued development of friendly relations between Korea and Japan.

Additionally, a Hanji leather bag and red ginseng will be presented to Prime Minister Takaichi. These gifts were inspired by Hanji (traditional Korean paper) and ginseng, both of which were symbolic items exchanged by the Joseon Tongsinsa (Korean goodwill envoys to Japan). The Presidential Office explained that these gifts are meant to reaffirm the longstanding ties between the two countries and to express hopes for their continued relationship.

The accompanying Baekja (white porcelain) frame features a "dalhangari" (moon jar), which is regarded as a symbol of hope in both countries. Chief Spokesperson Kang conveyed that this gift expresses a wish for the continued friendship between Korea and Japan.

The spouse of the Prime Minister will receive a Joseon Tongsinsa set along with a snowflake-themed set of vessels. These works, crafted using zinc glaze and silver to evoke the beauty of blossoming snowflakes, are inspired by the snowy scenery of Fukui Prefecture, the hometown of Prime Minister Takaichi’s spouse.

Citizens have also prepared gifts for Prime Minister Takaichi. The National Intangible Cultural Heritage Andongpo Weaving Village Preservation Society has prepared a single-layer blanket made of Andongpo, historically presented to the royal court, to wish for the Prime Minister's health and peace.

In addition, the Andong Hahoe Village Clan Association has prepared a mini Jangseung set, symbolizing the totem poles’ traditional role as protectors against evil spirits and disease, drawing a parallel to the role of the national leaders of both countries.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.