Nat'l Assembly celebrates launch of first official bipartisan body to bolster ROK-U.S. alliance

Building on decades of the Seoul-Washington alliance, the National Assembly has opened an official bipartisan group that aims to strengthen engagement with American lawmakers.

Our political correspondent Lee Shi-hoo tells us more.

A first in over 76 years of its history

South Korea's National Assembly on Monday celebrated the launch of an official bipartisan group of lawmakers, aimed at strengthening interactions with the members of the U.S. Congress.

"It is now time for parliamentary diplomacy to shine its light. I ask that you communicate closely and strengthen the alliance between South Korea and the U.S.

I, too, as the speaker, will support your efforts along the way."

Speaker Woo, in his congratulatory speech, shared his optimism for greater diplomatic endeavors between the two countries' legislators.

Over 1-hundred-60 South Korean lawmakers have joined the new exchange group to engage with 1-hundred-80 of their counterparts in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, who are part of the "Korea Caucus."

Joseph Yun, the U.S. interim ambassador to South Korea, also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the two at the event.

On the agenda this year are comprehensive trade talks, also involving major firms and think tanks, as well as group visits to the U.S.

Lee Shi-hoo, Arirang News.