President Lee Holds Private Luncheon with Former Mayor Hong Joon-pyo... Launches 'Unity Drive' in Earnest
by Lim Chunhan
Published 17 Apr.2026 18:29(KST)
'Makgeolli Meeting' Fulfills a Promise Made Seven Weeks Ago
Some Speculate on the Possibility of Prime Minister Appointment
On April 17, President Lee Jae-myung held a private luncheon meeting with former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo at the Blue House.
This meeting took place at the invitation of the Blue House. Makgeolli was prepared for the luncheon, but President Lee reportedly did not drink as he had another appointment scheduled.
In May of last year, when former Mayor Hong left the People Power Party and departed for the United States, President Lee posted on Facebook, "Have a safe trip to the United States. Let's share a glass of makgeolli when you return."
On this day, former Mayor Hong wrote on Facebook, "In my twenties and thirties, I lived with a passion for justice; in my forties, fifties, and sixties, I lived with a passion for party politics. Now, I have entered the twilight of my seventies. Like the beauty of a crimson sunset, I hope to live the rest of my life with passion for my country."
Some observers are speculating that former Mayor Hong may be abruptly included as a candidate for the next prime minister.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.