Sweet Diplomacy: The Story Behind the Branded Ghana Chocolate in Seoul | Discuss Ghana

On Friday, March 13, 2026, Ghana’s Ambassador to South Korea, Kojo Choi, shared what he described as one of the most emotional moments of his life: witnessing a unique exchange involving a giant bar of "Ghana Chocolate".

The special chocolate was a welcome gift from South Korean President Lee Jae-myung to President John Dramani Mahama during his working visit to Seoul.

---

More Than Just Candy: A Cultural Icon

Ambassador Choi, who is of South Korean heritage but a naturalized Ghanaian, explained that for many Koreans, "Ghana Chocolate" is a powerful symbol of childhood and nostalgia:

50 Years of History: Produced by Lotte WellFood, Ghana Chocolate has been a household name in Korea since 1975.

Authentic Roots: The product is famous for using over 80% Ghanaian cocoa beans, making it a tangible link between the two nations long before formal diplomatic ties were fully matured.

Personal Connection: President Lee revealed that the gift had personal significance; during his 2023 hunger strike, a child gave him a bar of Ghana Chocolate, which provided him with much-needed strength and comfort during a difficult political moment.

The Custom Design

The chocolate presented to President Mahama was a "specially crafted" commemorative edition:

Branding: The red packaging featured the bold inscription "HE John Dramani Mahama".

Flags: It prominently displayed the national flags of both Ghana and South Korea to symbolize their strengthening partnership.

Ambassador’s Pride: Kojo Choi noted the deep emotion of seeing the name of the country where he has lived his life (Ghana) celebrated as a brand loved by the country of his birth (Korea).

---

Strengthening Ties Through Value Addition

During the summit on March 11, the chocolate served as a springboard for serious economic discussion.

Industrialization: President Mahama told President Lee that while it is an honor for Ghana's cocoa to be so loved, his goal is to move beyond raw bean exports.

Processing Power: Mahama expressed interest in partnering with Korean firms like Lotte to establish facilities in Ghana for producing cocoa liquor, butter, and finished products.

The "Sweet" Vision: Ambassador Choi echoed these hopes, stating he wishes the bilateral relationship to grow "stronger, warmer, and deeper, just like the sweetness of chocolate".