President Lee Jae-myung, accompanied by key aides including Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik, Political Affairs Secretary Hong Ik-pyo, and Public Communication Secretary Lee Kyu-yeon, visited the renowned Tosokchon restaurant near Cheong Wa Dae for a luncheon. The gathering included several Cheong Wa Dae reporters, providing an informal setting for dialogue. During the meal, President Lee addressed questions from journalists regarding his increased activity on social media and his perspectives on real estate policy. The event aimed to foster open communication between the administration and the media, highlighting transparency and accessibility.
The luncheon impacted both government officials and the public, as President Lee interacted directly with restaurant patrons and tourists. He responded positively to requests for selfies and engaged in conversations, demonstrating a commitment to public outreach. After the meal, President Lee and his group entered Gyeongbokgung Palace, where he continued to connect with visitors, including an Indonesian tourist dressed in traditional hanbok. He also accommodated photo requests from families and staff, reinforcing a friendly and approachable leadership style.
The event occurred on February 12, 2026, and was officially reported by Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong. Following the luncheon, President Lee walked through Gyeongbokgung Palace with his aides and returned to Cheong Wa Dae via the Yeonpungmun gate, the main entrance for staff. This sequence of activities reflects a deliberate effort to blend official duties with public engagement, marking a shift towards more frequent and informal interactions between the presidency and citizens.
Frequently asked questions include: Why did President Lee increase his SNS activity? He explained that it was to enhance communication and transparency. What are his views on real estate policy? President Lee candidly shared his thoughts during the luncheon, emphasizing openness to dialogue. How did the public respond? Citizens and tourists welcomed the opportunity to interact with the president, as evidenced by numerous photo requests and positive exchanges.
President Lee Jae-myung’s luncheon with aides, journalists, and the public near Cheong Wa Dae demonstrates a commitment to transparency and open communication. His willingness to discuss real estate policy and increased SNS activity, as well as his approachable interactions with citizens and tourists, signals a shift towards more informal and frequent public engagement. The event, held on February 12, 2026, highlights the administration’s efforts to foster trust and inclusivity. This approach may encourage greater public participation in policy discussions and set a precedent for future leadership outreach.