In his inaugural speech delivered at the National Assembly, South Korea’s newly sworn-in President Lee Jae-myung pledged to pursue dialogue with North Korea while strengthening the country’s alliance with the United States under President Donald Trump.
Lee reiterated a balanced approach aimed at fostering peace on the Korean Peninsula alongside robust deterrence against potential threats.
Representing the liberal Democratic Party, Lee assumed office amid deep domestic divisions and complex regional challenges, including strained relations with North Korea, rising tensions in U.S.-China competition, and economic uncertainties exacerbated by global protectionism.
Lee stated his administration would “deter North Korea’s nuclear and military threats through a strong deterrence” rooted in the solid South Korea-U.S. military alliance.
At the same time, he underscored the importance of keeping communication channels open with Pyongyang to “forge a future marked by peace and prosperity” and to “mend the scars of division and conflict”.
He called for pragmatic diplomacy and pledged to enhance trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the United States, and Japan, building on the existing security partnership. Lee’s approach reflects a desire to balance security concerns with diplomatic engagement.
Lee’s election followed a snap vote triggered by the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, whose controversial declaration of martial law last December deepened political polarisation.
Lee secured nearly 50 per cent of the vote amid the highest presidential election turnout since 1997.
Economically, Lee faces the challenge of reviving South Korea’s export-driven economy amid U.S. tariffs and global protectionism, requiring close coordination with the Trump administration.
While Lee’s inauguration speech notably omitted direct references to China, analysts highlight the delicate diplomatic tightrope he must walk between Washington and Beijing.
Lee has previously signalled a more conciliatory stance toward China, South Korea’s largest trading partner, but his inaugural remarks prioritised reaffirming the U.S. alliance.
President Lee’s call for dialogue with North Korea and cooperation with the Trump administration signals an intent to stabilise the region through a combination of military readiness and diplomatic outreach.
His administration is expected to pursue a “flexible, pragmatic” foreign policy aimed at healing domestic divisions and navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of Northeast Asia.
