South Korea’s Lee uses AI video to honour shared factory worker past with Brazil’s Lula
South China Morning Post
by SCMP’s Asia deskFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung paid a heartfelt tribute to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva during his state visit by showcasing an AI-generated video that recreated their shared history as factory workers. The 11-second clip, posted on Lee’s social media, served as a touching prelude to the two leaders’ formal embrace as heads of state. This gesture underscored the personal connection between the两位 leaders and set the tone for their official meeting, which took place during Lula’s three-day visit to Seoul—his first in 21 years.
Lula arrived in South Korea on Sunday, marking the start of a historic trip aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. During their summit on Monday, the two nations agreed to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership, reflecting the growing importance of their collaboration in areas such as trade, technology, and global affairs. The use of AI technology to animate their shared past not only highlighted the leaders’ humility but also demonstrated South Korea’s innovative approach to diplomacy.
This move matters because it signals a shift toward more personalized and technologically driven diplomatic strategies. By leveraging AI to connect on a personal level, Lee and Lula set an example for how modern leadership can bridge cultural and political divides. The video also resonated with audiences interested in the human side of global politics, showcasing how historical connections can be reignited to foster mutual understanding and cooperation between nations.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/25/2026