Lee Jae-myung Officially Sworn In as South Korea's New President

South Korea ushered in a new era on Wednesday as Lee Jae-myung, a veteran human rights lawyer renowned for his liberal agenda, officially commenced his term as president. In his inaugural address before the National Assembly, Lee pledged to heal the wounds left by recent political upheaval and to energize an economy shaken by global uncertainties and domestic hardship.

The presidential election drew the highest voter turnout since 1997, reflecting the nation’s intense desire for change after months of martial law and political volatility. Lee secured a decisive victory with 49.42 percent of the vote, surpassing conservative contender Kim Moon-soo, who garnered 41.15 percent. The results, confirmed by the National Election Commission, underscored the electorate's call for stability and reform following the suspension of civilian governance under former President Yoon Suk-yeol.

Describing the election as “judgment day” against what he labeled the failures of martial law and the previous administration, Lee vowed, “The first mission is to decisively overcome insurrection and to ensure there will never be another military coup with guns and swords turned against the people.” His message resonated strongly with voters disillusioned by turmoil and unrest that punctuated Yoon’s final months in office.

Lee wasted no time in assuming the powers of commander-in-chief, with the National Election Commission officially confirming his presidency early Wednesday. His brief swearing-in ceremony at parliament marks the beginning of a planned overhaul of both political and economic priorities.

Immediately addressing the nation’s pressing economic concerns, Lee emphasized policies aimed at alleviating the burdens facing South Korea’s middle- and low-income families as well as small business owners. He signaled that reviving economic growth and managing cost-of-living pressures were urgent priorities for his administration, pledging swift action and unwavering support for vulnerable sectors as they recover from the dual shocks of political and international instability.

The new president inherits a series of high-stakes challenges, including delicate trade negotiations with the United States. Washington has demanded changes to import duties it claims have fueled a substantial trade imbalance. The previous administration, hampered by leadership transitions and instability, was unable to resolve tensions regarding U.S.-imposed tariffs on critical South Korean exports such as automobiles and steel. Analysts stress that Lee must move quickly to secure a deal and prevent further economic fallout.

International partners were quick to respond to the transition. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated the enduring strength of the alliance between the two nations, describing it as “ironclad” and essential for regional security and economic cooperation. Lee echoed similar sentiments in his own remarks, calling the alliance “the backbone of South Korea’s global diplomacy.” Both sides expressed a commitment to modernizing their partnership to address emerging global challenges.

As Lee Jae-myung assumes the mantle of leadership, he faces the dual task of restoring confidence in South Korea’s democratic institutions and reinvigorating an economy tested by external threats and internal divisions. The coming weeks will provide the first indication of whether his promises of reform and unity can translate into tangible progress for a country emerging from one of the most turbulent chapters in its modern history.