Donald Trump was gifted a replica golden crown worn by ancient Korean kings during his visit to South Korea, symbolising peace and prosperity.
GYEONGJU: US President Donald Trump received a replica golden crown once worn by South Korean kings during his official visit.
The gift was presented following a lavish welcome ceremony in the historic capital of Gyeongju on Wednesday.
South Korean officials described it as a replica of “the largest and most extravagant of the existing gold crowns” from the Silla dynasty period.
Trump was told the crown represented “the divine connection between heavenly and earthly leadership”.
Seoul’s presidential office stated the crown symbolises “peace, coexistence, and shared prosperity on the peninsula”.
The presentation comes amid domestic protests in the United States against what organisers call Trump’s “king-like” presidency.
Trump previously mocked these rallies on social media with AI-generated images showing him wearing a crown.
The US leader also received South Korea’s highest decoration, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa.
He was told the medal was given “in anticipation of the peace and prosperity you will bring to the Korean peninsula”.
“It’s a great honour,” Trump responded. “I’d like to wear it right now.”
Trump’s visit included meetings with South Korean counterpart Lee Jae Myung ahead of expected tense trade talks with China’s Xi Jinping.
The state dinner for Trump featured a “gold-themed dessert” symbolising the “alliance’s enduring trust”. – AFP
