Former President Moon advises current leader Lee to prioritize health

Former President Moon Jae-in urged current President Lee Jae-myung to prioritize his health, stating that a president's well-being is not merely personal but a public asset. "A president's health is not personal; some say it's a public asset. It would be good if you managed your health a bit better," Moon remarked during their first meeting since Lee's inauguration.

President Lee responded with an apology for causing concern to the elder statesman, saying, "I apologize for causing worry to the elder in the household, young man." He then inquired about Moon's farming and other activities. Moon shared that he has been tending to his farm, working at his bookstore, and enjoying hiking in the surrounding nature.

The two leaders met for a two-hour lunch and walk at Cheong Wa Dae, engaging in discussions on national affairs. The meal itself was designed to symbolize "harmony and integration," key themes often emphasized by both leaders. Bibimbap, a mixed rice dish, was served, representing unity.

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A president's health is not personal; some say it's a public asset. It would be good if you managed your health a bit better.

Upon Lee's arrival, Moon greeted him with a handshake and an embrace in the Cheong Wa Dae's Nokjiwon garden. Moon initiated the conversation by asking about Lee's health, given his demanding schedule. Lee, in turn, asked about Moon's farming endeavors. Moon described his current life, involving farming, his bookstore, and hiking.

The menu for the luncheon was carefully curated to reflect the theme of harmony and integration. It included dishes such as Andong-style Su-ran-chae (jellied eggs with vegetables), a specialty from Lee's hometown, along with Nokdu Samgye-juk (mung bean and chicken porridge), various jeon (pancakes), and grilled Korean beef ribs. Summer seasonal dishes like Min-eo-tang (croaker fish soup) were also served. For dessert, assorted rice cakes and fruit punch were offered. Cheong Wa Dae noted that the fruit punch was prepared in remembrance of a similar dish made by former First Lady Kim Jung-sook for staff and reporters during a flood relief effort around the same time in 2017.

Former First Lady Kim Jung-sook was unable to attend the luncheon due to overseas commitments.

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I apologize for causing worry to the elder in the household, young man.