South Korea’s new president, Lee Jae-myung, has pledged to resume “dialogue” with Pyongyang and improve relations with the reclusive state, thus marking a complete reversal from the hardline stance of his predecessor Yoon Suk-yeol.
“No matter the cost, peace is better than war,” Lee stated in his inauguration speech, promising to “deter North Korea’s nuclear and military provocations while at the same time opening channels of communication.”
At night, speaking to supporters after his election win, Lee proposed policies of “co-prosperity” with Pyongyang.

“Protectionism threatens our very survival”
Lee Jae-myung also reaffirmed the alliance between his country and the United States, promising increased trilateral cooperation with Japan. He vowed a “flexible and pragmatic” government, committing to restore democracy.
“The rapid changes in the global order, such as rising protectionism and the restructuring of supply chains, threaten our very survival,” added Lee, referring to the trade chaos triggered by Donald Trump’s tariffs, in an economy heavily dependent on exports.