Lee Jae-myung and Hong Joon-pyo’s Secret Lunch: What It Means for National Unity in 2026

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President Lee Jae-myung hosted a private lunch with former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo at the Blue House on the 17th.

By meeting a leading conservative who competed in last year’s People Power Party presidential primary, Lee signaled an effort to promote national unity beyond partisan lines.

The meeting was arranged at the Blue House’s invitation, and makgeolli was reportedly served at the lunch. Last May, when Hong left the People Power Party and traveled to the United States, President Lee posted on Facebook, “Have a good trip to the U.S. — when you return, let’s share a cup of makgeolli.”

The makgeolli was intended to honor that promise, though officials said the president did not drink it because he had another engagement afterward.

At the lunch, Hong asked Lee to restore the ceremonial honors afforded to former president Lee Myung-bak. After the meeting, Hong wrote on Facebook that his request was made “out of the ties and loyalty from our years together as ronin in Washington in 1999.”

He said he had never benefited from the pro–Lee Myung-bak faction during the MB administration, but made the appeal because he regrets how personal grudges now dominate politics. He warned against excessive political interpretation, saying that poor-quality readings stem from a lack of understanding.

Hong also requested national government support for a new TK (Daegu–Gyeongbuk) airport, saying the project is aimed at promoting balanced national development.

The lunch has fueled speculation that Hong could take on a role within the current administration, putting his next political moves under close scrutiny. Some have even suggested he could unexpectedly emerge as a contender for prime minister.