Lee Jae-myung was inaugurated as South Korea’s new president on Wednesday, promising to bring unity to a country facing significant divisions. In his speech, he emphasized his commitment to "unite the people" and address the country’s pressing issues.
Lee’s election comes at a challenging time, following a period of political turmoil that intensified after former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unexpected martial law declaration last December. Lee, representing the liberal Democratic Party, secured nearly half of the votes in the election, indicating strong support for his vision.
During his address to the National Assembly, Lee stated, "I will start with reviving the economy and healing the people." He pledged to be a president for everyone, regardless of their political affiliations. He criticized the existing political factions, claiming they lack the interest to work for the people’s well-being.
Lee also highlighted the need to overcome the politics of division, promising to work towards unifying the nation. Beyond domestic concerns, he faces urgent foreign challenges. He must manage the U.S.-Korea alliance under the new Trump administration, maintain a balanced relationship with China, and address issues with North Korea.
In addition to his unity pledge, Lee announced plans for a "flexible, pragmatic government" and revealed that an emergency economic task force would be activated immediately to tackle the country’s economic challenges. As he steps into this new role, the eyes of South Korea and the world will be on how he navigates these complex issues and strives to bring the nation together.