President Lee Jae-myung Holds First Luncheon Meeting with Ruling and Opposition Leaders

On the 22nd, President Lee Jae-myung is set to conduct a luncheon meeting with the leadership of both ruling and opposition parties. Attendees will include Kim Byeong-ki, acting party leader and floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, and Kim Yong-tae, emergency measures committee chair, along with Song Eon-seok, floor leader of the People Power Party.

According to the Presidential Office, during this luncheon, President Lee plans to explain the outcomes of the recent G7 summit he attended to the party leaders and engage in frank discussions regarding national affairs without a pre-determined agenda.

A Frank Discussion on National Affairs

Currently, both parties are in a standoff concerning the parliamentary processing of the second supplementary budget bill and the nomination of Prime Minister candidate Kim Min-seok, leading to expectations that these pressing issues will be naturally addressed during the meeting.

First Meeting Between Ruling and Opposition Parties Within 18 Days of Inauguration, Reflects Will for Cooperation

The decision for President Lee to invite the opposition party leaders to a luncheon is notable as it occurs just 18 days after his inauguration, which is considered relatively early compared to past presidents.

The Presidential Office described this meeting as reflecting President Lee's intention to communicate openly with the opposition.

Meanwhile, the Presidential Office announced that President Lee plans to pursue separate meetings with other opposition party leaders who are not part of the negotiating groups at an appropriate time. This is interpreted as part of efforts to enhance communication between the ruling and opposition parties and increase political inclusiveness.

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