South Korea's New President Promises to 'Heal Wounds' and Foster Peace with North Korea

South Korea's newly inaugurated president, Lee Jae-myung, made a sweeping call for reconciliation with North Korea as he assumed office on Wednesday. Lee, who won a decisive victory in snap elections called after his predecessor's abrupt declaration of martial law, promised to "heal wounds" and build a path toward long-term peace on the divided peninsula.

The victory puts the progressive Lee at the helm immediately following confirmation of the vote tally early Wednesday. His rival, conservative Kim Moon-soo, was unable to overcome the backlash against former president Yoon Suk Yeol's crisis-ridden government—a period marked by chaos and controversy. As Lee addressed the nation, he underscored his commitment to dialogue, stating, "We are ready to talk with the North," and expressed hope that negotiations could resolve longstanding hostilities.

Shortly after assuming office, Lee spoke with South Korea's top military commander, officially taking control of the nation's armed forces. He urged the military to stay vigilant and maintain high readiness in the event of provocations from Pyongyang, even as he extended an olive branch northward. "Peace and security must go hand in hand," Lee emphasized, signaling both resolve and openness to engagement.

Observers noted that Lee's approach marks a significant shift from the hardline stance of his predecessor. Unlike previous administrations, Lee refrained from attaching preconditions to renewed talks with North Korea—drawing attention from analysts who described it as a "significant departure" from recent policy. The coming days and weeks will be critical in gauging Pyongyang's reaction to Lee's overtures.

Lee's inauguration ceremony reflected the political tumult that precipitated his rise. Held inside the National Assembly, the modest event included only a few hundred guests, a stark contrast to the massive outdoor gatherings that typically accompany the start of a new administration in South Korea.

With the transition underway, Lee is now expected to focus on forming his cabinet, starting with major appointments including the presidential chief of staff, prime minister, and director of the National Intelligence Service. These decisions will be closely watched for indications of how the new president intends to steer the country through a time of uncertainty—and whether his promises of dialogue and reconciliation will materialize into concrete policy on the Korean Peninsula.