The activities of Mrs. Kim Hye-kyung at the G7 - From quiet support to 'First Lady diplomacy'

Overview of First Lady Kim Hye-kyeong's G7 Activities

In mid-June 2025, the G7 summit took place in Canada, drawing the world's attention. The remarks of the leaders of each country, as well as economic and security issues, garnered significant interest, along with the activities of their spouses. Notably, there was a figure that stood out: Kim Hye-kyung, the spouse of the President of South Korea. After a period of quietly maintaining a low profile, she broke her long silence and reappeared on the official stage. Her presence was not merely a ceremonial accompaniment she brought with her independent schedules and messages. This prompts a renewed reflection on what the role of a 'first lady' should mean in South Korean society.

Mrs. Kim Hye-kyeong's diplomatic practice at the G7 site

The schedule of Mrs. Kim Hye-kyung for this G7 meeting was organized around independence and practicality. She did not just play the role of accompanying President Yoon Suk-yeol but delivered her own message through separate visits and meetings. Her first activity was visiting the Calgary Korean Community Center, where she held a meeting with local nationals. During this occasion, Mrs. Kim had an open conversation with about 20 local residents, students, and cultural organization representatives, showing her understanding of the confusion and loneliness that immigrants experience regarding their identity. Her remark that she felt 'those living abroad have a more patriotic heart' left an emotional resonance that went beyond mere politeness, and the participants expressed their gratitude, saying they felt 'the touch of our homeland.' This meeting was a place of sincere communication that transcended a symbolic visit. Another important schedule included a visit to the National Arts Center for Persons with Disabilities (NaAC). This space, which supports the creation, exhibition, and performance of artists with disabilities, was led by a Korean figure. Mrs. Kim naturally interacted with disabled artists and attentively toured the facilities while thoroughly listening to Canada's inclusion policies and cultural support systems. Her statement that 'Korea also needs more exchanges and institutional considerations so that disabled artists can work more safely and autonomously' conveyed a meaningful message that highlighted attention to social minorities in the diplomatic arena.

Possibilities for the Expansion of the First Lady's Role

Traditionally, the role of the First Lady in Korean society has remained informal and symbolic. Quiet support, ceremonial accompaniment, and a gentle enhancement of the national image have been the common perceptions. However, the world is different. U.S. First Lady Jill Biden continues to maintain her identity as an educator and is involved in public policy, while France's Brigitte Macron also voices concerns about youth issues and education policy. They function not merely as the "spouses of the president," but as subjects of "soft power" with social influence. Kim Hye-kyung’s schedule at the G7 positions her within this flow of change. Although she does not hold an official title, her actions carry clear symbolism and policy impact. Furthermore, by focusing on culture, society, and empathy rather than political topics, she has secured a more universal persuasive power. Solidarity with the expatriate community, interest in disabled artists, and expressions of cultural pride can become meaningful diplomatic assets that go beyond mere participation in events.

The change in the image of Kim Hye-kyeong and the remaining tasks.

This activity could be an important turning point for Kim Hye-kyung personally. Due to past controversies, she had been passive in public activities, but through this G7, she attempted to transition from a 'quiet supporter' to a 'public role performer.' In particular, her meetings with expatriates and disabled artists, who are relatively free from political interests, can be interpreted as a strategic approach to break free from a widely unfavorable public image. By showcasing traditional culture in a hanbok and encouraging artists, she indirectly enhances the country's image, demonstrating the soft power of 'First Lady diplomacy.' However, whether these activities will remain a one-time event or establish themselves as a sustainable public endeavor depends on future public interest and evaluation.

Conclusion - New Possibilities of Korean-style First Lady Diplomacy

Kim Hye-kyoung's schedule at this G7 summit was not merely a ceremonial participation, but rather a significant step with clear social implications. The age-old question of "how far can the role of the First Lady be expanded" calls for a new answer from Korean society at this point. Bridging the gap with the public and forming emotional connections that are difficult to achieve with political language may be more effective through the spouse rather than the president themselves. Above all, consistency and continuity are essential. If this endeavor does not remain a one-time event, but instead leads to engagement with the expatriate community, the cultural sector, and social minorities, Kim Hye-kyoung could present a new model of the "modern Korean-style First Lady." At the same time, this will serve as a litmus test to see if Korean society is ready to accept the First Lady as an integral public member rather than a supporting character.