United States President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden will on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, host President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea and his wife, Kim, to a state dinner in the White House to commemorate 70 years of the US-South Korea alliance.
President Yoon and Mrs. Kim will be offered a banana split when they dine with President Biden and first lady Jill Biden.
Jill Biden will preview the state dinner according to a statement by the White House on Monday.
Mrs. Biden will in her preview bare her mind on remarkable ideas, shared values, symbols, and moments of beauty that have cemented the relationship between the US and South Korea over the last 70 years.
Jill Biden, White House executive chef Cris Comerford, White House executive pastry chef Susie Morrison, and Korean American celebrity chef Edward Lee, collaborated on the menu that will be served on George W. Bush’s state service china and platinum-colored linens.
Broadway stars Norm Lewis, Lea Salonga, and Jessica Vosk will entertain the guests to mark the 70 years anniversary of both country’s ties.
The preview read: “From the painted animals representing both countries that greet our guests, to the swirl of colors in the table décor that mirrors the South Korean flag, to the mix of symbolic flowers throughout—peonies, hibiscus, azaleas, and orchids—we hope to showcase the harmony of our cultures and our people intertwined. Guests will enjoy their meal beneath the boughs of cherry trees, a shared symbol of the renewal of spring.
“And perhaps nothing better represents the harmony of our cultures than the guest chef who has designed our menu, Chef Edward Lee. His style of cuisine reflects his Korean family and the influence of his New York upbringing and Kentucky home. Chef Lee creates meals that are both familiar and surprising, a fusion of different worlds that finds a perfect balance. We’re honored to have his incredible talent alongside our White House chefs.
“Finally, the evening will conclude with something distinctly American: musicals. Broadway stars will perform renditions of iconic songs, showcasing the craft and creativity of our country.”