President Lee Welcomes Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi in Andong

President Lee Jae-myung personally welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on May 19 in Andong, where they were set to hold a Korea-Japan summit.

President Lee stood at the entrance of a hotel in downtown Andong around 1:40 p.m. waiting for the arrival of Prime Minister Takaichi's vehicle.

As the black car arrived, President Lee greeted Takaichi with a bright smile, clapping his hands and shaking her hand.

The two leaders, meeting for the third time in an official capacity, displayed their camaraderie by holding hands and patting each other on the shoulder.

"I appreciate you coming all the way to our small rural city. I have been waiting since last night," President Lee said in welcoming Takaichi.

Takaichi praised the traditional music band and honor guard that preceded her vehicle, saying, "Wonderful," and smiled broadly at President Lee, expressing her gratitude.

Before entering the meeting venue, Takaichi bowed to the band and the press, following President Lee's lead.

On this day, President Lee wore a sky-blue tie that matched the tone of Takaichi's suit jacket.

A Blue House official explained, "The tie was chosen to convey a friendly feeling with a special meaning of shuttle diplomacy, symbolizing respect and trust."