New President Lee Jae-myung Inherits a Divided South Korea
South Korea’s new president Lee Jae-myung was sworn in on Wednesday, vowing to be a unifying leader after months of political chaos and the controversial martial law declaration under his predecessor, Yoon Suk-yeol. Lee, who secured victory with just under 50% of the vote, inherits a fragile economy and a politically polarised nation. His Democratic Party now dominates parliament, sparking concerns over unchecked power.
Lee aims to restore democracy, stimulate the economy, and stabilise regional diplomacy — particularly through closer ties with China and potential engagement with North Korea, despite Pyongyang’s growing alignment with Russia.
Legal controversies continue to swirl around Lee, with multiple investigations and attempts to delay trials until after the election. While some fear authoritarian overreach, others see his administration as a chance for institutional reform. Experts warn the real test will be whether Lee rules with pragmatism and humility, or risks fuelling deeper division and backlash.
📰 Media Comparisons:
- Korea Herald: Focused on Lee’s swearing-in and legal troubles, highlighting scepticism over judicial reform plans.
- Deutsche Welle (DW): Emphasised geopolitical shifts and potential changes in Seoul-Beijing-Pyongyang relations.
- BBC News: Covered the martial law fallout and how it shaped voter sentiment.
- Al Jazeera: Explored the consequences of Lee’s party’s parliamentary dominance and the risk of political overreach.
🏛 Political Reactions:
- President Lee: Pledged unity, economic reform, and rebuilding trust after months of unrest.
- Hyobin Lee, Sogang University: Warns of a “fragile mandate” and unchecked power in the legislature.
- Park Jung-won, Dankook University: Flags legal cases and potential democratic backsliding via judicial reforms.
- Leif-Eric Easley, Ewha University: Sees Lee’s rise as a “watershed moment”, with potential for either reform or deeper political polarisation.