New ruling party leader vows to support Lee's policy agenda

SEOUL -- The recently elected Democratic Party leader, Kim Min-seok, pledged on Tuesday to work closely with President Lee Jae Myung's administration and enhance collaboration between the ruling party and the presidential office. The announcement came after Kim secured victory at the party's national convention, outpacing rival Rep. Jung Chung-rae.

Kim stated that his primary objective is to fully support the government and the president's policy direction while actively listening to public concerns and conveying them to Cheong Wa Dae and the government. He emphasized that the party is in an ideal position to hear the voices of the people and stressed the importance of maintaining a united front without any barriers.

Kang Hoon-sik, the presidential chief of staff, echoed Kim's call for close cooperation, expressing his hope for a healthier and more closely knit relationship between the party and Cheong Wa Dae. This development comes in the wake of growing concerns among some pro-Lee supporters over former DP leader Jung's leadership style, which was perceived as prioritizing the party's hard-line members over seamless coordination with the presidency on critical matters.