Seoul, Jan 18 (NationPress) Former lawmaker of the Democratic Party (DP), Hong Ik-pyo, has been appointed as the new secretary for political affairs under South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, as announced by Cheong Wa Dae on Sunday.

Hong is set to assume his responsibilities starting Tuesday, taking over from Woo Sang-ho, who has served as the secretary for public relations and communication. This update was shared by Lee Kyu-youn during a press briefing reported by Yonhap News Agency.

A seasoned politician, Hong has completed three terms as a lawmaker and previously held the position of floor leader for the DP while Lee was at the helm of the party.

“Renowned for his balanced and friendly demeanor, (Hong) has consistently engaged in a politics of compromise and understanding, aiming to resolve conflicts through collaboration during his legislative tenure,” stated Lee.

This new appointment follows Woo’s resignation offer, reportedly to pursue a candidacy for the governor of Gangwon Province in the local elections set for June.

There is speculation regarding whether other senior officials will resign as a result of a regulation that requires civil servants to step down 90 days prior to running for office.

On January 16, President Lee Jae Myung engaged with leaders from both ruling and opposition parties to address bipartisan cooperation and ongoing state matters, according to Cheong Wa Dae.

This luncheon meeting, which took place at Cheong Wa Dae, included leaders from the ruling Democratic Party (DP) and five smaller parties. However, Jang Dong-hyeok, leader of the main opposition People Power Party, was absent.

Recently, Jang has initiated a hunger strike, insisting on the acceptance of special investigation bills concerning bribery allegations linked to the Unification Church and claims of illicit payments regarding the DP's election nominations.

The five minor parties involved include the Rebuilding Korea Party, New Reform Party, Basic Income Party, Jinbo Party, and the Social Democratic Party.

While details from the discussions were not immediately released, it is anticipated that President Lee will convey the insights gained from his recent visits to China and Japan, discuss state affairs comprehensively, and seek political backing for the government's policy initiatives.

This marks Lee's third engagement with party leaders since his inauguration in June of the previous year, and the first since September.