By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Kim Moon-soo, the Presidential candidate for the People Power Party (PPP), held a luncheon with U.S. Interim Ambassador to Korea Joseph Yun at the U.S. Embassy residence in Jung-gu, Seoul, on May 15.

The luncheon, which lasted for about an hour and a half, was attended by Kim Jae-won, the candidate's chief of staff, and Min Jang, the U.S. Embassy's counselor for political affairs.

“It was a meaningful time for candidate Kim to have a heart-to-heart conversation about strengthening the U.S.-ROK alliance, North Korea's nuclear issue, and mutual cooperation to resolve US-Korea trade issues,” Kim Jae-won said in a press release, adding that the Presidential candidate Kim and Yun exchanged views on bilateral issues.

“The Presidential candidate Kim will continue to closely consult with friendly countries, including the U.S., and further strengthen the values of the U.S.-ROK alliance,” Kim Jae-won emphasized.

“In accordance with diplomatic protocol, we decided to keep all other details of the conversation private,” Kim told reporters.