Seoul: The new chief of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), Kim Min-seok, met with presidential aides on Tuesday, pledging support for the Lee Jae Myung administration and emphasizing the importance of cooperation with the presidential office.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Min-seok, who was elected as the DP leader at the party's national convention, expressed his commitment during a meeting with Kang Hoon-sik, the presidential chief of staff, and Hong Ihk-pyo, the senior presidential secretary for political affairs, at the National Assembly. Kim defeated Rep. Jung Chung-rae, who was seeking a second consecutive term, in the leadership race.

Kim assured that the Democratic Party would fully back the government and the president's policy direction, while also ensuring that public concerns are addressed by conveying them to Cheong Wa Dae and the government. He expressed his intention to foster communication as a united team without barriers, acknowledging both the expectations and responsibilities that come with his new role.

Kang Hoon-sik reiterated Kim's sentiment on the importance of cooperation between the ruling party and the presidential office. He emphasized that the party is in a prime position to hear the people's voices and urged Kim to inform the presidential office about any public concerns that may have been overlooked by the government. Kang expressed hope for a healthier and closer relationship between the party and Cheong Wa Dae.

Kim's election as the DP leader is expected to enhance cooperation between the ruling party and the presidential office. The former leadership under Jung had raised concerns among some pro-Lee members, who felt that Jung's approach focused more on appealing to hard-line supporters within the party rather than coordinating closely with the president on important issues.