President Lee Jae-myung's Inaugural Address: Unity and Practical Governance

On June 4, 2025, President Lee Jae-myung took his oath of office at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, declaring his administration as a 'pragmatic market-oriented government' focused on revitalizing the economy and restoring livelihoods. In his inaugural speech, he expressed his commitment to embody the aspirations of the 52 million citizens of South Korea, stating, 'Today marks the first step towards a true democratic republic of Korea.' He emphasized the urgency of reviving the struggling economy and creating a brighter future for all citizens.

President Lee called for unity, stating, 'Regardless of whom you supported in the election, I will be a president for all, embracing and serving every citizen.' He urged the nation to move beyond outdated ideologies, asserting, 'There are no longer issues of progressivism or conservatism; only the issues of the people and the nation remain.' He pledged to adopt policies from both former leaders Park Chung-hee and Kim Dae-jung if they are beneficial and practical, promising a government that supports and encourages rather than controls.

He outlined his vision for a flexible and just government, stating, 'The newly inaugurated Democratic Party government will be a government of integration and practicality.' To foster creative and proactive business activities, he announced a shift towards a negative regulatory framework, ensuring that entrepreneurs can freely start and grow their businesses in the global market.

President Lee also highlighted the importance of a robust social safety net, asserting that both individuals and the nation must grow to share prosperity. He announced the immediate activation of an emergency economic response task force to tackle the economic downturn, aiming to stimulate a virtuous cycle in the economy through strategic fiscal measures.

Addressing past crises, he vowed to prevent any recurrence of civil unrest that undermines national sovereignty, promising thorough investigations and accountability. In terms of foreign policy and security, he emphasized strengthening the South Korea-U.S. alliance and enhancing cooperation with Japan, while also maintaining open channels for dialogue with North Korea to ensure peace on the Korean Peninsula.

President Lee committed to significant investments in advanced technology sectors such as AI and semiconductors, as well as transitioning towards a renewable energy-focused society to combat climate change. He stressed the need for a transformative growth strategy that promotes balanced and fair development.

He also expressed his ambition to cultivate a flourishing cultural landscape in South Korea, aiming to elevate the nation's cultural industry and establish it as a global soft power leader. Emphasizing the importance of safety and peace, he pledged to clarify the truths behind past tragedies and build a society where citizens' lives and properties are secure.

In closing, President Lee vowed to create a nation where the people are truly the masters, promising to pursue social reforms with unwavering determination. Quoting Nobel laureate Han Kang, he reminded the nation that 'the past helps the present, and the dead save the living,' urging everyone to work together towards a better future for the next generations.