President Prabowo Subianto continued his extensive overseas work visit, traveling from Japan to the Republic of Korea. The Indonesian presidential aircraft, carrying President Prabowo, touched down at Seongnam Military Air Base in Seoul on Tuesday, March 31st, at approximately 7:15 PM local time. This arrival marked the latest leg of his diplomatic engagements, following his departure from Haneda Airport in Tokyo at 5:15 PM local time earlier that day.
Upon his arrival in Seoul, President Prabowo was met with a distinguished honor guard, impeccably dressed in traditional Korean warrior attire, performing a formal welcome ceremony. The solemn occasion was further marked by a 21-gun salute, a customary display of respect for visiting heads of state. Key figures from the Republic of Korea, including Minister of Climate, Energy, and Environment Kim Sungwhan, Ambassador-Designate to Indonesia Yoon Soongu, and Chief of National Protocol Kim Tae-jin, were present to formally greet President Prabowo.
Representing Indonesia, the delegation welcoming President Prabowo included the Indonesian Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, Cecep Herawan, and the Indonesian Defense Attaché in Seoul, Colonel Muhammad Arif. During his stay in Seoul, President Prabowo is slated to undertake a full state visit, which includes a significant welcome ceremony hosted by the President of the Republic of Korea at the historic Blue House. This high-level visit is anticipated to significantly strengthen the bonds of friendship and the strategic partnership between Indonesia and the Republic of Korea, paving the way for broader, mutually beneficial cooperation opportunities in the future.
Warm Reception from Indonesian Citizens in Seoul
Beyond the official protocols, President Prabowo also experienced a heartfelt welcome from the Indonesian diaspora in Seoul. Upon arriving at his hotel, he was greeted by numerous Indonesian citizens residing in the country, eagerly awaiting his presence. Adding a touching personal touch, two Indonesian children, dressed in traditional attire, presented President Prabowo with flower bouquets as a warm sign of welcome. He graciously accepted the flowers, acknowledging their thoughtful gesture with a appreciative smile.
Several Indonesian expatriates shared their excitement about the President’s visit. Khairul, a Master’s student at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), expressed his delight at meeting President Prabowo. He recounted a brief conversation where the President inquired about his studies and offered words of encouragement to successfully complete his academic journey.
Similarly, Pujianti, a PhD student at Seoul National University, conveyed her immense pride at meeting President Prabowo in the city where she pursues her education. Hailing from Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT), Pujianti voiced her hope that the strengthening relationship between South Korea and Indonesia would unlock more educational opportunities, particularly for students from eastern Indonesia. “Frankly, I am very proud because, coming from Nusa Tenggara Timur, it is very difficult for me to go to Jakarta to see the President. But I can meet the President where I study. So I am very proud,” Pujianti shared.
Rima, an Indonesian diaspora member who has long resided in South Korea, also conveyed her deep emotion and happiness at President Prabowo’s presence. She expressed her hope that the ties between Indonesia and South Korea would continue to grow stronger, bringing tangible benefits to the communities in both nations. “Since yesterday, I couldn’t sleep. It’s truly extraordinary. It’s an honor to be invited by the Indonesian Embassy to welcome Mr. President,” Rima stated. She further emphasized her wish for “the friendship between Indonesia and Korea to be further strengthened.” This warm reception from the Indonesian community underscored the significant resonance of President Prabowo’s visit among his compatriots abroad.
Summary
President Prabowo Subianto continued his overseas working visit from