UNJournal Jon Lee |  Cheong Wa Dae Spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong released the following statement on March 2 about President Lee Jae-Myeong's meetings in Singapore: At tonight's state dinner, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam expressed warm feelings of kinship, noting the many things Korea and Singapore have in common. He began by pointing out that men in both countries are required to fulfill mandatory military service, adding that he was delighted BTS had completed their service and would be performing in Singapore in December.

He also noted that the people of both nations are growing closer in everyday areas such as arts, culture, and sports, and emphasized that Singaporeans have a keen interest in K-pop and Korean dramas.

He cited the drama When Life Gives You Tangerines (Poksak Sokasuda), which President Lee Jae-myung had mentioned on several occasions, saying that its portrayal of the dignity of ordinary life across three generations had resonated with people in Singapore and around the world.

He further noted that Singaporeans are fans of Black and White Chef, which showcases Korean craftsmanship and excellence, expressing his admiration for Korean culture on multiple occasions. President Tharman then proposed a toast, calling out Wihayeo ("To us!") in Korean.

In his response, President Lee emphasized that Korea and Singapore share a common story: both have overcome limited natural resources and geopolitical challenges through the passion of their people and the creative spirit of their enterprises, growing into leading nations in their region.

He went on to say he was confident that Korea and Singapore could be reliable partners who benefit each other in the era of artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

President Lee also noted that the venue of tonight's dinner was the same place where Singapore had facilitated the historic North Korea–US summit, and asked for Singapore's full support in opening channels of inter-Korean dialogue and advancing peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Throughout the dinner, background music reflected Singapore's thoughtful consideration for its Korean guests. The playlist included Golden, the theme from the globally talked-about K-pop Demon Hunters; At Andong Station, evoking President Lee's hometown of Andong; and Arirang, Korea's most beloved traditional folk song.

The dinner menu featured fusion Korean cuisine prepared with care using Korean-sourced ingredients, including lobster soup harmonized with rice cake, a chicken soup prepared in the style of samgyetang, Jeju hanwoo beef steak, and a dessert served with a sauce made from fermented doenjang paste.

Meanwhile, President Lee wore a white shirt and red tie—the colors of the Singaporean flag—as a gesture of respect toward Singapore. First Lady Kim Hea Kyung wore a green hanbok to represent Singapore's national brand as a Garden City, expressing her hope that the friendship between Korea and Singapore will continue to grow and flourish.