"Are you in good health?"… President Lee Jae-myung reaches out first

President Lee Jae-myung made a direct phone call to former People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo, marking the first time since taking office. The call took place on the morning of the 6th, with reports indicating that the president initiated the contact to Kim’s mobile phone.

During the call, President Lee inquired about not only Kim's health but also the well-being of his spouse, Seol Nan-young. In response, Kim reportedly expressed his gratitude, saying "Congratulations, thank you," and they exchanged good wishes.

It has been reported that there were no specific discussions regarding political issues between the two sides. A spokesperson for Kim stated, "There were no policy discussions at all; it was a conversation out of courtesy."

This call from President Lee is interpreted as part of his ongoing emphasis on 'national integration' since shortly after the presidential election. By reaching out first to a political rival, it can also be seen as a sign of cooperation for overall governance.

"Let’s create a new Republic of Korea"… President exits Democratic Party group chat

On the same morning, President Lee exited a group chat on Telegram where members of the Democratic Party were communicating. Around 8 a.m., he quietly left the chat after leaving a brief message saying, "I hope to see you often" and "Let’s create a new Republic of Korea."

Afterward, Democratic Party members reportedly posted messages of encouragement such as “Thank you for your hard work” and “Thank you” as farewell messages. The departure from the group chat is interpreted as a delicate distancing from the party and a demonstration of his commitment to governance.

Drawing lines on 'party interference'… Regional committee chair exits

Earlier, on the 5th, President Lee also exited another Telegram group where over 200 Democratic Party regional committee chairs had gathered.

At that time, he left only a message of thanks. Some committee chairs requested him to stay, but it is reported that he decided to leave considering the impression it might create of excessive involvement in party affairs as president.

President Lee Jae-myung’s series of actions, clearly delineating between party affairs and governance, while sending messages of integration and autonomy, may potentially create subtle ripples in the political landscape between the ruling and opposition parties in the future.