[Reporter’s Notebook] A Changed National Assembly: The Era of Cooperation Begins Now

"Our People Power Party lawmakers aren't responding to my speech, and if this continues, I'll start to feel embarrassed..."

On June 26, President Lee Jaemyung visited the National Assembly chamber to deliver a policy speech. During his address, he made this lighthearted remark with an awkward smile, attempting to ease the typically solemn atmosphere of the chamber. President Lee made a concerted effort to show respect to the opposition party as he called on the National Assembly to cooperate in passing the supplementary budget.

"To our People Power Party lawmakers, I am sincerely grateful that you have joined us in this difficult setting. Thank you." President Lee made this unscripted remark as he appealed for the opposition's cooperation.

When President Lee entered the National Assembly, the difference in attitude between the ruling and opposition parties was palpable. Along the route from the chamber entrance to the podium just below the Speaker's seat, ruling party lawmakers lined up to greet the president, creating a warm atmosphere. People Power Party lawmakers, however, remained in their seats with somewhat stiff postures. Nevertheless, they did not openly display hostility or engage in political protest, such as holding placards. Even during President Lee's speech, there were no overt acts of dissent. For those observing the scene, the changed atmosphere in the chamber was striking compared to the previous administration. There were no hostile confrontations or exchanges of insults that would make one frown.

President Lee infused his policy address with an emphasis on cooperation. He wore a navy suit and a 'cooperation' necktie featuring a mix of blue, red, and gray. After concluding his speech, President Lee bowed toward the People Power Party seats and then approached the opposition lawmakers. The response of the opposition lawmakers drew attention, as most of them stood up to show their respect.

He exchanged brief words with several lawmakers, including Lim Jongdeuk and Yoo Yongwon. Lawmakers such as Kim Sungwon and Shin Sungbeom shook hands with President Lee with bright expressions. Kwon Seongdong, former floor leader of the People Power Party, conveyed his wish that the president not appoint a new prime minister; President Lee responded with a smile, giving Kwon a light tap on the arm as he passed by. The two are alumni of Chung-Ang University and share a close relationship, having once prepared for the bar exam together.

Although the so-called political honeymoon period following the president's inauguration is a special circumstance, the scene in the chamber that day was markedly different from the past. It was a moment that underscored the necessity of political partnership and cooperation. There are cautious hopes for the restoration of politics. In his inaugural address, President Lee stated, "I will be a president for all, embracing and serving every citizen." If both sides make concessions and seek common ground, solutions can be found. Each step in this process is, in itself, cooperation. It is hoped that this policy speech will serve as a symbolic moment marking the beginning of a new era of magnanimous politics.