Japanese PM Dines With Korean Actor

Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and his wife, Miyuki Hatoyama, had lunch over the weekend with Korean TV actor Lee Seo-jin in Tokyo.

The Hatoyamas are known as fans of Lee and visited him Saturday at the Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo, where the actor was staying.

Lee visited Friday the office of Miyuki Hatoyama to give her gifts as a token of his gratitude for inviting him in September.

Lee said the gifts of kimchi, a crane painting and Oriental health food represent his wish for the health and longevity of Japan’s first family.

Miyuki Hatoyama said the kimchi was the best she ever had, and sent a letter of gratitude to Lee’s mother, who made the traditional Korean side dish.

Lee also received a muffler from the Japanese first lady.

At the luncheon, the Hatoyamas showed great interest in the “Let’s Tree” campaign in which Lee is taking part. The campaign is seeking to plant trees at desert areas in Central Asia, including Mongolia.

Lee arrived in Japan Thursday for modeling activities for a cosmetics brand.

jkmas@donga.com