Carmen Heart2Hearts Joins State Dinner Between Prabowo and South Korean President
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The name of Indonesian K-pop idol Carmen Heart2Hearts has suddenly come into the spotlight after appearing at the state dinner between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on Wednesday (1/4/2026) local time.
This moment drew attention because it is rare for a rookie K-pop artist to appear at a state event at the head-of-state level. Carmen’s presence even featured in an official post by the South Korean President.
In one photo shared on Lee Jae-myung’s Instagram account, Carmen is seen posing with both presidents. Not only that, her face was also used as a thumbnail in official content, appearing in the president’s YouTube video, providing significant exposure for the newcomer idol.
The spotlight on Carmen demonstrates how popular culture figures are entering the realm of modern diplomacy, especially in the increasingly close relations between Indonesia and South Korea.
In his post, Lee Jae-myung quoted a statement from President Prabowo, “If together, we can go further,” said Lee, quoted from the official Instagram @2_jaemyung.
“President Prabowo’s words really touched my heart. Moving forward, South Korea and Indonesia, as a special comprehensive strategic partnership, will step stronger and further together for the prosperity of both countries,” Lee emphasised.
Lee stated that Indonesia and South Korea will continue to advance as a special comprehensive strategic partnership, focusing on shared prosperity.
Meanwhile, in an official statement on social media, President Prabowo conveyed that the bilateral meeting resulted in several important agreements. The two countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in various strategic sectors, from defence, main weapon system equipment (alutsista), trade, artificial intelligence, to investment.
This agreement also serves as a momentum for commemorating 53 years of Indonesia-South Korea diplomatic relations, now directed towards strengthening sustainable economic ties. Carmen’s presence in this forum is seen as a new symbol of soft power, where the entertainment industry, particularly K-pop, plays a role in strengthening inter-country relations.
On social media, the moment of Carmen’s appearance was immediately widely discussed by netizens. Many were surprised that the Indonesian rookie idol is now in the circle of world elite leaders.
“Just yesterday I saw Carmen’s fanmeet in Indonesia, now her circle is already with presidents,” wrote one netizen.
Other comments were also proud in tone, “MUST BE PROUD!! CARMEN’S BACKING 2 PRESIDENTS.”
Not a few also highlighted the rare exposure, “Man, you debut on the IG of Korea’s number one dad, epic.”
“Proud of you Carmen,” wrote another netizen.