President Lee Returns Home; Greets Democratic Party Leader Jung Chung-rae at Airport

President Lee Jae-myung returned to Korea today (June 18) via Seoul Air Base after completing a European tour to attend the Group of Seven (G7) Summit.

President Lee visited Belgium, Italy, and the Vatican in succession during his 10-day trip that began on June 9. He then attended the G7 Summit held in Évian, France, on June 16–17 before departing for home.

At the airport today, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, Democratic Party of Korea leader Jung Chung-rae, and Floor Leader Han Byung-do were present to welcome the President upon the conclusion of his diplomatic schedule.

From the Presidential Office, Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik and Senior Secretary for Political Affairs Hong Ihk-pyo were also in attendance.


President Lee walked quickly past the welcoming party, shaking hands with those waiting for him.

Leader Jung bowed at approximately a 90-degree angle, to which President Lee responded by saying, "Thank you for your hard work."

Prime Minister Kim also bowed, though no separate conversation took place.

When President Lee departed on June 9, government officials including Prime Minister Kim attended the send-off ceremony, but the Democratic Party leadership, including Leader Jung, did not appear.

While that absence had sparked speculation, particularly in light of the upcoming party leadership race, this time both Prime Minister Kim and Leader Jung were present to receive the President.

Meanwhile, President Lee plans to begin focusing on domestic affairs, starting with a meeting of senior secretaries tomorrow to review countermeasures for summer natural disasters.

Other key issues requiring the President's attention include discussions on reforming the National Election Commission, which were triggered by the ballot paper shortage during the June 3 local elections, and the progress of the personnel vetting process for Prime Minister nominee Han Sung-sook.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.