Hot off the press! On Monday in Beijing, Peng Liyuan, spouse of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Kim Hea Kyung, spouse of Republic of Korea President Lee Jae Myung, caught up over tea 🍵 to chat about how to make life better for women and kids in both countries.
They dove into the power of people-to-people ties, agreeing that frequent visits, cultural exchanges, and hands-on programs can build stronger bonds and mutual understanding. Kim praised Peng’s long-standing efforts—like her UNESCO role for girls’ education and the China-Africa “Warm Children's Hearts” project—to uplift women and children worldwide.
On the same day, leaders from China and the ROK witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding focused on protecting children’s rights and boosting their well-being. The deal includes policy talks, staff exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives to make a real impact on the ground.
Peng’s track record is impressive: in 2014 she became a UNESCO Special Envoy for Girls’ and Women’s Education, and in 2023 she co-launched a health initiative that’s reached kids in over 50 African nations. These achievements set the stage for deeper cooperation with the ROK.
Looking beyond the region, China also made waves at the Global Summit of Women in Beijing in October 2025, pledging $10 million to UN Women, $100 million for South-South cooperation projects, 1,000 small livelihood programs, 50,000 exchange spots for women, and a new Global Center for Women’s Capacity Building. 🌍
As young pros juggling careers, side hustles, and social causes, we can take notes: this is diplomacy in action—using soft power, cultural exchange, and concrete programs to champion gender equity and child welfare. Let’s keep an eye on how these initiatives roll out and inspire our own community projects! 💡
Reference(s):
China, ROK to strengthen exchanges on welfare for women and children
cgtn.com
