President Lee Holds Luncheon with Former Mayor Hong Joonpyo... "Request to Restore MB Privileges" (Comprehensive)

On April 17, President Lee Jae-myung held a private luncheon meeting with former Daegu Mayor Hong Joonpyo at the Blue House.

Former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo and President Lee Jae-myung. Photo by Yonhap News.

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This meeting was arranged at the invitation of the Blue House. Makgeolli was also prepared for the luncheon, but President Lee reportedly did not drink it due to his next scheduled appointment.

Last May, when Hong Joonpyo left the People Power Party and departed for the United States, President Lee posted on Facebook, "Have a good trip to the United States. Let's share a glass of Makgeolli when you return."

Hong Joonpyo requested the restoration of former presidential privileges for former President Lee Myung-bak. After the luncheon, Hong stated on Facebook, "Throughout the MB administration, I never benefited from being associated with the pro-Lee Myung-bak faction due to their checks and balances. Still, I made this request because I am disheartened by the current political climate rife with personal animosities," adding, "The widespread low-level interpretations are simply due to a lack of study." He also requested national support for the Daegu·Gyeongbuk (TK) New Airport, explaining, "This is for the balanced development of the nation."

Earlier, just before the luncheon, Hong posted on Facebook, "Those in their 20s and 30s lived with a passion for justice, while those in their 40s, 50s, and 60s lived with passion for their political factions. Now that I am entering my 70s, the twilight of life, I hope to live the rest of my life with a passion for my country, just like the beauty of a red sunset."

Some observers speculate that Hong Joonpyo could be dramatically included in the pool of candidates for the next Prime Minister.

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