'AI Emperor' Enjoys Chimaek, US President Receives Silla Gold Crown... Korean Style Prevails in Both Industry and Diplomacy

On the evening of the 30th, outside a fried chicken restaurant in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, appeared alongside Lee Jae-yong, Chairman of Samsung Electronics, and Chung Eui-sun, Chairman of Hyundai Motor Group. The street quickly filled with people. The three enjoyed chimaek (fried chicken and beer) and somaek (soju mixed with beer) among the crowd.
During the meal, CEO Huang stepped outside to shake hands with citizens and hand out gifts. This scene spread on social networking service (SNS) as the 'AI Emperor's Chicken Gathering,' quickly becoming a hot topic. After finishing their meal, the three took a commemorative photo and moved to a nearby Nvidia event venue.
It was reported that CEO Huang personally suggested both the venue and the menu for this gathering. The sight of global business leaders clinking glasses in an ordinary Seoul restaurant demonstrated how Korean daily culture is becoming a new way for business leaders to connect.
On the same day in Gyeongju, another form of cultural diplomacy was on display. During the Korea-US summit, President Lee Jae-myung presented US President Donald Trump with a model of the Gold Crown from Cheonmachong Tomb, which drew significant attention. President Trump expressed his satisfaction, saying, 'It's truly beautiful. I'll place it at the very front of my museum.' Foreign media reported that the gift perfectly matched Trump's taste for lavish presents and noted that the crown, symbolizing the unification spirit of Silla, represents a golden era for the Korea-US alliance.
On the 13th, North Gyeongsang Province invited members of the Association of Spouses of Ambassadors in Seoul (ASAS) to participate in traditional Korean culture experiences such as making Kimchi, brewing traditional Korean alcoholic beverages, and crafting with hanji. Participants toured World Heritage sites including Byeongsan Seowon and Hahoe Folk Village, expressing admiration for the harmony of tradition and modernity.
Recently, visits by foreign dignitaries to Korea have taken on a new character. Rather than formalities, they opt for everyday experiences, and meetings centered around Korean food and tradition are becoming a natural mode of exchange.
Whether it’s Jensen Huang toasting with citizens, President Trump smiling as he receives a gold crown, or diplomatic spouses making Kimchi, Korean culture is serving as a bridge connecting people across politics, industry, and diplomacy.
Experts view these developments as a new form of diplomacy, combining the credibility and global appeal of Korean culture. Shin-wha Lee, professor of political science and international relations at Korea University, noted, 'K-culture has already become a brand, signaling trust as something 'Made in Korea.' The Korean origin conveys an image of reliability and quality, and this environment is expanding exchanges through everyday life and tradition.'
Jae-Hwan Jung, professor of political science and international relations at Inha University, commented, 'Korean culture is now an important tool attracting global attention. Prominent figures are increasingly seeking to build interest and rapport through it.'
425_sama@fnnews.com Choi Seung-han Reporter