First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos took part in a cultural program for spouses of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) leaders on Friday, touring the ancient Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju, South Korea.
Araneta-Marcos traveled to South Korea alongside President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who is attending the 32nd Apec Leaders’ Meeting in the same city.
Photos shared by Yonhap News showed her visiting the heritage site with spouses of leaders from Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand.
Bulguksa Temple, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is described by South Korea’s official tourism authority as a cornerstone of Buddhist culture from the Silla Kingdom. According to the site’s historical account, “It was built during the 15th year of King Beopheung’s reign (514–540) to wish for peace and prosperity for all. It was later rebuilt in 751 by Kim Dae-seong. Unfortunately, the temple caught fire during the Imjin War (1592–1598). After the war, the temple suffered serious damage and was often the target of theft.”
The President and First Lady arrived at Gimhae Air Base on Thursday afternoon ahead of the two-day summit, where the Philippine leader is expected to focus on economic priorities, partnership-building, and reinforcing the country’s role in a more open regional economy.
