'From K-pop to cuisine: Phl-Sokor ties stronger'

Seoul and Manila's friendship is "now stronger than ever," South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa said, as the two nations marked 75 years bilateral relations.

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

At a media luncheon last Friday, Lee discussed Filipinos' early Christmas festivities as singers Jose Mari Chan and Mariah Carey are "taking over the airwaves as well as social media."

Lee also greeted President Marcos, who celebrated his 67th birthday.

"Our two countries are closer than ever - from K-pop and K-drama to cosmetics and cuisine - we've built strong bonds not just through diplomacy but through shared passion and culture. Soft power, passion and compassion — these are what truly unite us," Lee said.

The recent Korea World Travel Fiesta celebration provided an opportunity to promote Korea as a must-visit winter destination, Lee noted.