South Korea President Lee vows to revive democracy and economy

South Korea’s newly elected liberal president Lee Jae‑myung was sworn in on June 4, 2025, pledging to lift the country out of the damage caused by a recent martial‑law attempt and to revive its struggling economy amid global protectionism. He vowed to restore democracy, livelihoods, and national security, which he said had been undermined by military force and political indifference. Lee’s campaign capitalised on public anger over former president Yoon Suk‑yeol’s unconstitutional declaration of martial law and the People Power Party’s support for it. As president, he has already appointed a new prime minister and cabinet, announced a pragmatic pro‑market agenda, and pledged to address urgent cost‑of‑living concerns. He also plans to strengthen ties with China and North Korea, maintain engagement with Japan, and view the U.S. alliance as the backbone of South Korea’s global diplomacy.