Ties between the US and South Korea will be front and center in the décor and on the menu for Wednesday’s elaborate state dinner at the White House, which will be held under towering cherry blossom branches in the East Room following weeks of careful diplomatic preparations.
“From my husband, I learned that all politics is personal,” first lady Dr. Jill Biden told reporters at a preview of the state dinner, traditionally one of the most glamorous events hosted at a White House. “It’s about finding the common threads of humanity that connect us – that transcend distance and difference – and building on those shared values.”
The White House will welcome President Yoon Suk Yeol and Mrs. Kim Keon Hee, the first lady said, by “honoring the 70 years of our alliance with symbols and moments of beauty that reflect both our countries.”
The visit will kick off Tuesday as the Bidens welcome President Yoon and his wife for an evening visit to the Korean War Memorial. The guests will be formally received with an official arrival ceremony Wednesday on the South Lawn ahead of a bilateral meeting with the presidents, followed by a joint press conference. And in the evening, it’s time for the White House’s full pomp and circumstance as the leaders, their spouses, and key dignitaries attend the black-tie state dinner, just the second of the Biden administration.
There is much at stake at this critical moment in history for the US-Korea alliance, and every detail is taken seriously and meticulously prepared. The important visual diplomacy of setting a scene to welcome Yoon and his team was well underway earlier this week as key members of the team responsible for the dinner event showcased the state dinner’s design and culinary elements to reporters.
“We put great care, time and thought into every decor element and tablescape that guests will…
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