Lee calls for unity among new DP chair, former leadership contenders

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the importance of unity among the newly elected leader of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), Kim Min-seok, and two former contenders, Reps. Jung Chung-rae and Song Young-gil, during a dinner at Cheong Wa Dae. The three were present at the dinner following their participation in the party's leadership race.

Lee congratulated Kim on his election and expressed his encouragement to the other two contenders, stressing their significance in the administration. Senior presidential secretary for political affairs, Hong Ihk-pyo, conveyed Lee's message in a written briefing. Lee further highlighted that the ruling party, the government, and the presidential office are partners sharing a historic mission, urging them to collaborate towards making this year the beginning of an irreplaceable Republic of Korea.

The meeting took place just two days after the DP's national convention, where Kim secured 54.08 percent of the vote, compared to Jung's 45.92 percent.