South Korea’s New President Bets on the Military and Adopts Pragmatic Diplomacy
The Presidential Office in South Korea announced on Wednesday, June 4, that the newly elected President Lee Jae-myung has officially assumed office, calling on the military to maintain “full readiness.” He also reaffirmed his intention to resume dialogue with North Korea under a policy that balances deterrence and openness.
President Commends Military Discipline, Rejection of Unconstitutional Orders
In his first phone conversation with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Kim Myung-soo, President Lee received a security briefing on North Korea’s military activities and the readiness of South Korea’s armed forces. He emphasized the importance of full preparedness and close coordination with the United States. Lee also praised the military’s restraint during the brief imposition of martial law last December, highlighting its refusal to carry out what he described as unlawful orders from former President Yoon Suk-yeol—a stance he said helped prevent major unrest.
Lee Jae-myung Positions Pragmatic Diplomacy as a Strategic Choice
In his inauguration speech, Lee stated that his five-year presidency would be built on two pillars: “strong deterrence” grounded in a robust alliance with the United States, and maintaining an “open door” for dialogue with the North. He also underscored a commitment to pragmatic diplomacy aimed at enhancing regional partnerships—particularly through trilateral cooperation with Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo—as part of a strategic approach balancing security and engagement.
Lee officially took office after winning 49.42% of the vote, defeating conservative People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo in a snap election held following the dismissal of former President Yoon Suk-yeol.
